Madonna and Child with St John 1700 - 1722

Adriaen van der Werff's "Madonna and Child with St John," a delicate charcoal drawing, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the Christ Child while St John the Baptist looks on. Executed between 1700 and 1722, the work showcases the artist's meticulous attention to detail and refined technique. The subtle shading and delicate lines bring a sense of serenity and spirituality to the composition, highlighting the tender moment between mother and child. This intimate drawing exemplifies van der Werff's mastery of the figure and his penchant for idealized depictions of religious subjects, drawing comparisons to the work of the Italian High Renaissance. The piece is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.