Minerva Crowning the Genius of Fine Arts

Französische Grafik 1775–1780, early 1780s?

This is a drawing of an oval framed scene surrounded by floral garlands. In the center of the composition, there is an oval frame depicting a classical scene with figures in what appears to be a mythological setting. The figures are engaged in an interaction, likely involving a seated figure, a standing one holding a wreath, and possibly a cherub in attendance. Surrounding the central medallion is an elaborate floral garland made up of pink roses with green leaves and blue ribbons curling through the arrangement. The drawing has a refined elegance typical of neoclassical design, with an emphasis on symmetry and balance typically associated with 18th-century European aesthetic.
Artist
Französische Grafik 1775–1780
Date
early 1780s?
Type
Print
Medium
color etching, wash manner, and stipple engraving with gold leaf and hand coloring with silver paint (tarnished) on silk satin
Dimensions
29.5 × 36 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a drawing of an oval framed scene surrounded by floral garlands. In the center of the composition, there is an oval frame depicting a classical scene with figures in what appears to be a mythological setting. The figures are engaged in an interaction, likely involving a seated figure, a standing one holding a wreath, and possibly a cherub in attendance. Surrounding the central medallion is an elaborate floral garland made up of pink roses with green leaves and blue ribbons curling through the arrangement. The drawing has a refined elegance typical of neoclassical design, with an emphasis on symmetry and balance typically associated with 18th-century European aesthetic.

Französische Grafik 1775–1780