Study for a Saint, or for a Virgin in an Annunciation

Francesco Cossa

Summary

A reproduction produced by the Vasari Society of a drawing attributed to Francesco Cossa. The drawing is of a woman, who is standing in a hunched position with her arms crossed over her chest. She is wearing a headscarf and a long robe. The shadows in the folds of her clothing are indicated with hatching. Some ornate architectural detail is visible behind her, to the right. Text from the accompanying booklet produced by the Vasari Society: "1. ATTRIBUTED TO FRANCESCO COSSA STUDY FOR A SAINT, OR FOR A VIRGIN IN AN ANNUNCIATION Collection of Henry Oppenheimer, Esq. Pen and sepia, and sepia wash, on vellum. 20.9 x 7.9 cm. (8 3/16 x 3 1/16 in.). This interesting drawing - probably a fragment either of a composition of the Madonna and Child with Saints, or of an Annunciation - has been ascribed to Francesco Cossa; and although it does not seem possible quite definitely to confirm this attribution, the drawing may well be by an artist of the Ferrarese School very close to Cossa. The quality of draughtsmanship would in some ways seem to indicate the hand of an engraver. T. B."