Study of a Woman’s Dress for a Portrait 1535 - 1565

This 16th-century anonymous drawing, "Study of a Woman’s Dress for a Portrait", showcases the meticulous detail and careful observation of Renaissance artists. The drawing, likely a preparatory study for a larger painting, focuses on the intricate folds and pleats of a woman's dress, a testament to the importance of accurate representation in the period. The use of black chalk on blue paper creates a delicate and expressive effect, highlighting the textures of the fabric and the subtle contours of the body. This study, held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the careful approach to artistic practice during the Renaissance.