Term after 1600

This drawing, "Term," was made by Annibale Carracci, likely sometime in the late 16th century, using red chalk on paper. The drawing’s power lies in its skillful use of the red chalk medium to evoke form and texture, particularly evident in the drapery. Notice how Carracci modulates the pressure and angle of the chalk to create subtle shifts in tone. The hatching technique creates the illusion of depth, giving a sense of the weight and fall of the fabric. Drawings such as this one were not just preparatory exercises. They also played an important role in the commerce of art. Drawings were easier to transport and sell than finished paintings. So, in a sense, this work exemplifies a shift towards art as a tradable commodity, one that reflects a changing economic landscape for artists during the Renaissance. The material and the making are as much a part of the drawing’s impact as the artist’s intentions.