The Adoration of the Shepherds
1524-27
Parmigianino, a teenage prodigy of the Mannerist movement, sketched this dynamic scene of the Adoration of the Shepherds around 1524. Notice the swirling energy and the dramatic, almost theatrical poses of the figures, especially the towering, bearded Joseph leaning heavily on his staff while gazing at the infant Jesus. Angels flutter chaotically in the sky above, hinting at the divine excitement of the moment. This preparatory drawing shows the artist's incredible skill with line and shadow, capturing a holy moment with a raw, sketchy energy that feels surprisingly modern and urgent.