Antikes Gewölbe mit Treppe und mehreren Figuren, oben schwebt Maria mit Engeln 

This drawing was made by Bartholomeus Breenbergh in the 17th century, using pen and brown ink, with brown wash over graphite. The sepia ink allows him to describe an architectural interior in great detail, exploring the contrast between light and shadows. The perspective in the drawing guides your eyes from the foreground to the background where small figures appear to climb a flight of stairs. The layered application of brown wash, and hatching lines create an intricate play of light and shadows. Breenbergh's draftsmanship and ability to capture architectural space is demonstrated in this drawing. The sketch-like quality of the drawing is evocative of an old master, and a snapshot of everyday life. By focusing on the material qualities of ink and paper we can appreciate not just the image but the time and skill involved in its making.