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The image displays a complex arrangement of flowing curves and ornate lines in an abstract architectural composition. The shapes resemble elaborate garden trellises and floral embellishments, akin to large decorative arches in classical gardens. Detailed patterns suggest foliage, with leaves and tendrils weaving through the design, while the base is decorated with shell-like motifs. The curved forms on either side of the structure resemble the bodies of peacocks. Ornamental columns and arches enhance the overall grandeur, conveying a sense of a luxurious outdoor space.
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The image displays a complex arrangement of flowing curves and ornate lines in an abstract architectural composition. The shapes resemble elaborate garden trellises and floral embellishments, akin to large decorative arches in classical gardens. Detailed patterns suggest foliage, with leaves and tendrils weaving through the design, while the base is decorated with shell-like motifs. The curved forms on either side of the structure resemble the bodies of peacocks. Ornamental columns and arches enhance the overall grandeur, conveying a sense of a luxurious outdoor space.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

A Rococo Garden Trellis and Gazebo

Jean-François de Cuvilliés I

Date
c. 1750
Medium
pen and black ink with brown wash, heightened with white gouache on blue laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 54.4 x 32 cm (21 7/16 x 12 5/8 in.) mount: 57.8 x 35.4 cm (22 3/4 x 13 15/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
2004.31.1
Credit line
Gift of Andrea Woodner
Time span
1651 to 1700
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • architecture
  • German
  • plant
  • Flower
  • bird
  • animal
  • Garden
  • Ornament
  • Gardens
Provenance

Dr. Richard P. Wunder, Vermont;(his sale, Christie's London, 7 July, 1976, no. 78, as Jacques de Lajoue). (sale, Sotheby's New York, 21 January 2004, no. 111); (via Jean-Luc Baroni Ltd., London); purchased 2004 by NGA.

NGA object ID 129458. 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.