What material was commonly used for drawing during the time of the Renaissance?

During the Renaissance, pen and ink became a prominent choice for drawing due to its versatility and the level of detail it allowed artists to achieve. Artists utilized quills with ink to create intricate line drawings, often on paper or parchment. This method enabled precise control over line quality, which was essential for detailed studies and the preparation of works. The use of pen and ink also facilitated the development of a distinct linear style that was characteristic of Renaissance art, showcasing the artists' skill in managing line weight and texture.

Charcoal, while used during the Renaissance primarily for preliminary sketches and studies, did not offer the same permanence or precision in finished works compared to pen and ink. Similarly, while pencils and pastels existed, they were not as widely used in the same way as pen and ink for detailed drawings during this period.