Man Standing in Prayer (recto); Drapery Study (verso) 1550 - 1570

Domenico Fiasella made this drawing of a man standing in prayer with pen and brown ink in the 17th century. Consider how the Catholic Church, particularly in Fiasella's native Italy, emphasized the importance of personal piety and devotion during this period. We can see how this drawing embodies those values through the figure's humble posture and reverent expression. The study of drapery on the reverse side also offers insight into the artist's training and workshop practice. The image is also interesting from an institutional perspective. Fiasella, like many artists, relied on patronage from wealthy families and religious organizations. His work, in turn, reinforced the social and religious norms of his time. To fully understand this drawing, we might consult historical records of religious practices, studies of artistic training, and analyses of patronage networks. In doing so, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex interplay between art, society, and institutions in early modern Italy.