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.
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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
Print
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.