A Gentleman, a Young Woman, and a Dog

Art Historical Context

In the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art,A Gentleman, a Young Woman and a Dog* by Michele da Verona captures an intimate moment from the early th century. This delicate drawing, measuring just 7 3/16 x 6 1/2 inches, depicts a tender encounter between a well-dressed gentleman and a young woman, accompanied by a loyal dog—a motif often evoking themes of love, fidelity, companionship in Renaissance art. Executed in brush with gray and brown ink, with white on light brown prepared paper, the work showcases Michele da Verona's skillful handling of mixed media. This technique, popular among Italian artists of the period, allowed for nuanced modeling of forms through subtle tonal contrasts and luminous highlights, lending the figures a soft, lifelike presence. As a Veronese painter active in the early Renaissance, da Verona's style reflects the era's shift toward naturalism and emotional expressiveness. Housed in the Met since 1975, this drawing offers a glimpse into everyday romance and the artistry of preparatory sketches that bridged painting and personal expression. Its small scale invites close contemplation, revealing the artist's mastery in evoking quiet affection amid the grandeur of Renaissance humanism.