Kneeling Female Figure with Upraised Arms c. 16th century

This drawing was made by Abraham Bloemaert using red chalk. The figure is rendered with dramatic intensity. The red chalk lends a warmth to the subject, while also creating a sense of immediacy. The composition is dominated by the figure’s draped form, which cascades in a series of folds. The drapery almost seems to have a life of its own, swirling and pooling around her kneeling form. Bloemaert uses line and shadow to create volume. The lines articulate the contours of the figure, defining the shape of her arms and the fall of her clothing. The face is tilted upwards, suggesting a dialogue with the divine. Her hands are open in a gesture of supplication. Through the expressive rendering of form, Bloemaert captures a moment of deep spiritual intensity. The drawing is less about the specific identity, and more about the universality of human emotion. The lines capture the tension between human and divine will, expressed through the body.