Apotheosis of an emperor 

"Apotheosis of an Emperor" is a drawing by Giovanni Battista Merano, an Italian artist active in the late 17th century. This work features an emperor seated on a throne, flanked by two figures, possibly allegorical representations of his virtues. The composition, characterized by flowing lines and elaborate ornamentation, is typical of the Baroque style. The drawing is a preparatory study for a larger artwork, likely a painting or a fresco, and showcases Merano's skilled use of pen and ink to capture the dynamism and grandeur of his vision. It provides a glimpse into the creative process of a prominent Baroque artist, revealing his draftsmanship and compositional techniques.