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This is a drawing of an elaborate architectural structure. The structure features classical design elements, including an ornate pediment at the top, supported by elegant curvilinear columns with decorative volutes. The central area contains an emblem or cartouche bordered by intricate scrollwork, which holds a small depiction of a figure in its center. Below the emblem, there is an arch-like form with detailed linear shading that adds depth. The embellishments suggest a sense of grandeur and precision typical of classical or baroque architectural drawings. The balance of the composition and the fineness of the ink work highlight the skill in capturing the three-dimensionality and ornate detailing of classical architecture.
National Gallery of Art · Print
Architectural Motif with a Figure
Carlo Antonio Buffagnotti
- Date
- c. 1690
- Medium
- etching on laid paper
- Dimensions
- plate: 11.1 x 9 cm (4 3/8 x 3 9/16 in.) sheet: 17.2 x 12.4 cm (6 3/4 x 4 7/8 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 1997.10.10
- Credit line
- Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
- Time span
- 1651 to 1700
- Department
- CG-E
Portfolio and series
- Series
- Vari Capricii di Fughe Inventate et intagliate da Carlo Buffagnotti
Subjects and terms
- Italian
- etching
- detail and ornament
- architecture
Inscription
by later hand, lower right in graphite: Buffagnotti di Bologna
NGA object ID 102376. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.