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Francisco Ribalta

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The Coronation of the Virgin

by Francisco Ribalta, circa 1600–1628

Medium
Pen and brown ink and brown wash
Dimensions
28.7 × 18.7 cm (11 5/16 × 7 3/8 in)
Notes

Tumbling angels support the Virgin Mary as she graciously accepts the crown as Queen of Heaven. During the mid-1660s, the Coronation of the Virgin was a very popular subject in Catholic circles, especially in Spain. Francisco Ribalta treated the theme with remarkable dynamism and originality. He applied wash to strengthen the vigorous pen work and to unite the composition. The arched upper section suggests that he made the drawing in preparation for an altar painting.

Location
J. Paul Getty Museum

17th century