Virgin and Sleeping Christ Child with the Infant John the Baptist c. 18th century

This drawing, “Virgin and Sleeping Christ Child with the Infant John the Baptist,” is a work by the Italian High Renaissance master Raphael, created in the 18th century. The piece depicts the Virgin Mary, who sits protectively over a sleeping baby Jesus with John the Baptist kneeling to the right, and showcases Raphael's skillful use of line and shading to create a sense of depth and movement. This artwork is a testament to Raphael's mastery of drawing and his ability to capture the essence of the human form, making it a treasured work in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.