Study for a Reading Apostle or Evangelist Lorenzo di Credi (1459/60-1537)

The drawing presents a figure seated in profile, deeply engrossed in reading from a book held before him. He is depicted as an older man, characterized by a long, flowing beard and hair streaked with grey, suggesting wisdom and age. The artist has rendered the face with careful attention to detail, emphasizing deep-set eyes that appear focused and contemplative. A furrowed brow hints at intense concentration or perhaps even struggle in understanding the text.
The figure’s posture is significant. He sits slightly hunched over, his body angled towards the book, conveying a sense of absorption and dedication. The drapery falls around him in heavy folds, adding volume and weight to the composition while also contributing to an overall impression of solemnity. The artist has used shading to model the form, creating a three-dimensional effect that enhances the figure’s presence.
The drawing is framed by an elaborate oval border composed of intricate scrollwork. This decorative element serves to isolate the subject, elevating him and suggesting his importance. It also creates a sense of enclosure, as if he exists within a sacred space or sphere of knowledge.
Beyond the immediate depiction of reading, subtexts emerge concerning faith, scholarship, and introspection. The act of reading itself implies a pursuit of understanding, potentially religious or philosophical in nature. The figure’s aged appearance reinforces the idea that this is someone who has dedicated their life to study and contemplation. Theres an air of quiet dignity about him; he seems not merely to be reading but engaging with something profound.
The use of monochrome media contributes to a feeling of austerity and seriousness, reinforcing the contemplative nature of the subject matter. The drawing appears to be a preparatory study, suggesting that it was intended as a basis for a larger work, perhaps a painting or engraving. This context further emphasizes its value as an exploration of form and expression rather than a finished piece in itself.