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This is a drawing of an ornate architectural altar design. It includes a central section dominated by intricate architectural features such as tall columns and detailed carvings. The structure is adorned with classical figures, including reclining nudes and cherubic forms, which flank the top and sides. The drawing showcases a symmetrical design with sculpted niches housing statues of classical figures on either side. The base of the structure is embellished with colorful decorative elements and intricate details.
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This is a drawing of an ornate architectural altar design. It includes a central section dominated by intricate architectural features such as tall columns and detailed carvings. The structure is adorned with classical figures, including reclining nudes and cherubic forms, which flank the top and sides. The drawing showcases a symmetrical design with sculpted niches housing statues of classical figures on either side. The base of the structure is embellished with colorful decorative elements and intricate details.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

An Elaborate Altar of Colored Marble Ornamented with Sculptures

Italian 17th Century

Date
1600s
Medium
pen and brown ink with brown, red, and ochre washes and gouache on laid paper
Dimensions
overall: 43 x 38.3 cm (16 15/16 x 15 1/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
2004.136.1
Credit line
William B. O'Neal Fund
Time span
1551 to 1600
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • Italian
  • Italy
  • architecture
Provenance

(sale, PIASA, Paris, 19 March 2004, no. 16); (via Jean-Luc Baroni Ltd., London); purchased 2004 by NGA.

NGA object ID 130217. 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.