Saint Augustine Subdues Heresy with Lightning Bolts from His Pen

Deutsche Grafik 1750–1790, 1770s(?) (or 1780s?)

This is a painting featuring a complex scene with architectural, human, and possibly mythical elements. In the center, there are figures engaged in various activities within a grand architectural setting with a domed ceiling and columns. A seated figure on a pedestal appears to be writing or marking documents, surrounded by others performing related tasks. On the left, there is a tall architectural feature resembling a spire wrapped with vegetation. The lower portion of the scene includes figures in reclining or active postures, some with exaggerated physical features that could suggest mythical or symbolic themes. The style is reminiscent of a Baroque-inspired artist, characterized by a dramatic composition and detailed ornamentation.
Artist
Deutsche Grafik 1750–1790
Date
1770s(?) (or 1780s?)
Type
Drawing
Medium
watercolor with pen and brown and gray ink over traces of graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
24.7 × 18.1 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a painting featuring a complex scene with architectural, human, and possibly mythical elements. In the center, there are figures engaged in various activities within a grand architectural setting with a domed ceiling and columns. A seated figure on a pedestal appears to be writing or marking documents, surrounded by others performing related tasks. On the left, there is a tall architectural feature resembling a spire wrapped with vegetation. The lower portion of the scene includes figures in reclining or active postures, some with exaggerated physical features that could suggest mythical or symbolic themes. The style is reminiscent of a Baroque-inspired artist, characterized by a dramatic composition and detailed ornamentation.

Deutsche Grafik 1750–1790