St John the Apostle standing 1559 - 1613

This drawing, "St John the Apostle standing," is a work by the Italian Mannerist painter Cigoli. Executed in pen and wash on brown paper, the artwork depicts the apostle, standing in a long robe with his hands clasped in front of him. This striking figure study, likely a preparatory work for a larger composition, demonstrates Cigoli's keen interest in the human form. Cigoli's drawing style is characterized by the use of light and shadow to model the figure, revealing his mastery of the technique of chiaroscuro. The work, which is part of the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst collection, exemplifies Cigoli's artistic approach, and showcases his mastery of drawing as a crucial stage in the creative process.