The artwork titled “Study for St. Anne,” attributed to the celebrated artist Leonardo da Vinci, is a pencil on paper sketch from around 1501, originating from Italy. During the High Renaissance, a movement known for its development of highly realistic linear perspective and characterized by the works of masters like Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, this piece was crafted. It measures 21.8 x 16.4 cm and is categorized under the genre of sketch and study. Currently, the artwork is housed in a private collection.
The artwork presents a composition featuring three figures, likely the Virgin Mary, St. Anne, and the Christ Child, a common subject in Christian art. The figures are rendered with delicate pencil strokes, which give a sense of depth and volume to the forms. The finesse of the lines and the attention to detail are indicative of Leonardo’s meticulous approach to his studies and the effort to capture the subtleties of human expression and interaction. The positioning of the figures suggests a tender, familial relationship, with the elder St. Anne behind Mary, and both looking fondly at the child, who is engaged in an activity that is a bit unclear due to the sketch’s unfinished nature.
The background, although sparse, includes an arch that frames the composition, drawing the viewer’s focus towards the central group. This framework might hint at the architectural interests of the artist or represent a halo-like semblance, enhancing the sanctity of the depicted figures. The overall feel of the sketch is dynamic yet intimate, showcasing Leonardo da Vinci’s skill in conveying complex human emotions and relationships even through a preliminary study such as this.
