Saint John the Baptist and Saint Bernardo degli Uberti (after Andrea del Sarto's Vallombrosa Altarpiece) 1540 - 1609

Federico Zuccaro made this drawing of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Bernardo degli Uberti using red and black chalk, recreating an altarpiece by Andrea del Sarto. The medium of chalk allows for a soft, textural quality, with subtle gradations of tone achieved through layering. Look closely, and you can see the individual strokes that build up the figures and their drapery. The red chalk especially gives a warmth to the skin tones, while the black chalk defines the shadows and contours. Zuccaro expertly manipulates these materials to create a sense of volume and depth, even in this relatively small work. The choice of chalk as a medium also speaks to the function of this drawing: most likely a preparatory sketch for a larger painting or print. Chalk was a common tool for artists to explore compositions and work out details before committing to more permanent materials. In this context, the drawing offers a glimpse into the artist's process, revealing the labor and thought that underpins a finished artwork. By focusing on the material and the making, we gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and creativity involved in the artistic process.