Study for the Resurrection
c. 1574
Medium
Pen and brown ink, and brush and brown wash, heightened with lead white (partially oxidized), over traces of black chalk, on tan laid paper
Dimensions
31.9 × 21.7 cm (12 9/16 × 8 9/16 in.)
Classification
ink and wash
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
7134
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
This preparatory drawing by Santi di Tito captures a dynamic moment from the Resurrection, likely intended as a study for a larger altarpiece or fresco. Created around 1574, the work reflects the late Renaissance interest in dramatic religious narratives that emphasized both spiritual triumph and human emotion. As a Florentine artist, Santi di Tito often produced such detailed sketches to explore composition and movement before committing to paint. The medium—pen and brown ink with brush-applied wash, heightened by lead white over black chalk on tan paper—allows for subtle modeling of figures and drapery. The white highlights, though now partially oxidized, would have created luminous effects suggesting divine light, while the wash adds depth and shadow. Such techniques were essential tools for artists of the period, enabling rapid experimentation with poses and lighting on a modest scale of about 12 by 8 inches. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago’s Prints and Drawings collection, this sheet offers visitors a rare glimpse into the artist’s working process. It reminds us that even grand biblical scenes began with intimate, thoughtful studies on paper.
About the Artist
Santi di Tito · 1536–1602
Italian painter. Comment on works: Portraits; Religious