Apollo Killing Lion n.d.

Guido Reni made this drawing of Apollo Killing Lion in ink, wash, and graphite, using paper as his support. The effect of the wash is very important here. It creates a tonal range from the darkest areas, where the ink pools densely, to the lighter passages where the ink is thinly applied or diluted. The contrast defines the scene; it brings out the figures of Apollo and the lion from the dark landscape behind. It’s a powerful, active image, with Apollo dominating the lion as he draws back his bow. Look at the way that Guido Reni builds up the scene using rapid strokes of the pen. He must have been confident in his technique, applying the washes with speed and precision. Remember, drawing was regarded as a fundamental skill for artists in the Renaissance and Baroque periods. It was through drawing that they first gave life to their ideas. By focusing on process, we can gain a richer appreciation for the creativity of artists such as Guido Reni, and a deeper understanding of their art.