The King’s Gallery in London hosts an exhibition that brings together an unparalleled collection of drawings from the Italian Renaissance. This is one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Italian Renaissance drawings featuring around 160 works by over 80 artists, including legendary figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian as well as hidden gems from lesser-known talents, all drawn from the Royal Collection.
The Renaissance period saw a dramatic transformation in the way that artists worked, with a new-found appreciation for creativity pushing artistic boundaries. Drawing became central to this development, evolving from an essential tool of workshop practice to an exciting art form in its own right.
An Exhibition of Unprecedented Scale and Richness
For the first time, visitors will have the opportunity to see over 30 works that have never been exhibited before, and a further 12 that have never been shown in the UK.
“The Royal Collection holds an astonishing array of Renaissance drawings. These big, bold, and colorful studies show just how exciting the art of drawing became during this time. The Italian Renaissance would have been impossible without drawing – it was central to every stage of the creative process. These drawings cannot be on permanent display for conservation reasons, so the exhibition is a unique opportunity to see such a wide range of drawings up-close and gain an insight into the minds of these great Italian Renaissance artists.” Martin Clayton, Curator of the exhibition
The Heart of the Renaissance
Drawing was a fundamental part of the Renaissance, evolving from a tool for workshop practice to a vital means of exploring visual ideas, developing compositions, and understanding the world. Most drawings from this period were preparatory works for projects in various media, including paintings, prints, architecture, sculpture, metalwork, tapestry, and costume. Some were created as standalone works of art, reflecting the creative genius and versatility of the artists.
Highlights of the Exhibition
The exhibition is arranged thematically, beginning with life drawing, where artists typically drew from posed models to refine their skills and achieve originality in their compositions. Raphael’s The Three Graces, c.1517–18, and Fra Angelico’s The bust of a cleric, c.1447–50, are among the standout pieces, showcasing the diversity and innovation of the period. Studies of plants and animals, such as Titian’s chalk study of an ostrich, c.1550 add to the diversity. The exhibition also showcases the Renaissance artists’ versatility, featuring designs for applied arts. Leonardo da Vinci’s A costume study for a masque, c.1517–18, is a striking example of the period’s elaborate fashion and creativity.
An Interactive and Educational Experience
Throughout the exhibition, visitors will learn about the materials and techniques used by Renaissance artists. They will also see the progression of drawing methods, from the use of colored washes to intricate detailing with pen and ink.
The exhibition includes an interactive component, with three Artists in Residence from the Royal Drawing School creating live drawings in the gallery spaces on select days and visitors are also encouraged to engage in the artistic process, with paper and pencils provided for drawing.
Drawing the Italian Renaissance is at the King’s Galleries, Buckingham Palace until 9 March 2025
Tickets are from £9.85. More info and to book visit this website.
For more ideas of things to do with the kids in London, visit our events and activities area which provides details of free events and special offers in London’s finest venues.