Johannes de Doper in de woestijn 1513 - 1527

This is a preparatory drawing, or *studio drawing*, by the Italian Mannerist artist Parmigianino, executed between 1513 and 1527. It depicts *John the Baptist*, known in Italian as *Giovanni Battista*, in the wilderness. The drawing is composed of several figures, including John the Baptist and two other figures, possibly angels. The drawing is considered a preparatory work for a larger painting, which has not survived. The drawing demonstrates Parmigianino's mastery of drawing and his interest in the human figure. This drawing is in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.