A Male and a Female Saint (Joseph of Aramathea? and Saint Catherine of Siena? Adoring the Virgin and Child in Glory (recto); Minerva Bellona with a Victorious Warrior (verso) 1623 - 1690

"A Male and a Female Saint (Joseph of Aramathea? and Saint Catherine of Siena? Adoring the Virgin and Child in Glory (recto); Minerva Bellona with a Victorious Warrior (verso)" is a pen and ink drawing by the Italian artist Francesco di Maria, dated between 1623 and 1690. The drawing depicts a male and female saint kneeling in adoration of the Virgin Mary and Child, who are seated in a cloud-like form above them. Two cherubs are also seen flying above the Virgin Mary. The work is characterized by di Maria's fluid line and expressive use of shading, which convey a sense of movement and emotion. The drawing is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and is a significant example of di Maria's work in the Baroque style. The verso of the artwork depicts the Roman goddess Minerva Bellona with a victorious warrior. This drawing provides insight into di Maria's artistic interests and his stylistic development during the mid-17th century.