Raffaello - Caritas (Studie für die Predella der Grablegung Christi), 245r

This drawing shows a seated woman wearing a turban-like headdress, holding a child to her breast while two others cling to her. The composition uses circular, interlocking forms to convey a sense of abundance and maternal protection. Faint outlines of other figures in the background indicate the artist’s evolving thoughts during the preparatory process for a larger commission.

Representing the highest of the three theological virtues, Charity was often interpreted through a Neoplatonic lens as the earthly manifestation of divine love. This specific study was created for the predella of the Baglioni Altarpiece, bridging the human suffering of the Entombment with the redemptive power of selfless love.