Sketch of young deer 

Jacopo Bellini created this delicate sketch of a young deer in the 15th century using chalk and ink on paper. Bellini used the paper's texture to his advantage. You can see the fibers subtly interacting with the chalk, adding depth to the deer's form. The rapid strokes of ink bring the animal to life. Bellini likely captured the image from life, or perhaps from memory, showcasing the skills required to represent the natural world. This artwork shows an important shift in artistic practice. Paper was becoming more available, and artists like Bellini began to use it for preliminary studies. This sketch isn’t just a preparatory drawing; it’s a study of movement, texture, and form. We can appreciate Bellini’s careful observation and his mastery of simple materials. It reminds us that even the most humble materials, when combined with skill and vision, can produce profound works of art.