The Youthful Saint John the Baptist Seated in a Landscape 1655

Bartolomé Estebán Murillo rendered "The Youthful Saint John the Baptist Seated in a Landscape" with pen and brown ink, a traditional approach to drawing during his time. The material itself, ink applied with a quill, allows for a remarkable modulation of tone through hatching and cross-hatching. Murillo skillfully uses these linear techniques to define form and create a sense of depth. The immediacy of drawing allowed Murillo to capture the vitality of this subject, but also hints at the labor involved in repetitive movements. The ink, likely derived from natural sources, adds an earthy quality to the representation of Saint John and the lamb. This drawing represents a direct connection to the artist's hand and eye. We gain insight into Murillo's creative process, one rooted in observation and a deep understanding of his materials. By appreciating the materials, the ways of making, and the cultural context, we gain a fuller understanding of Murillo's artistic achievements.