This is a drawing depicting mythological figures in a serene outdoor landscape. The figures are shown enjoying leisurely activities like reclining and playing musical instruments. The scene features trees, vases, and a statue hinting at classical influence. The environment exudes a sense of harmony and relaxation, evoking a pastoral or Arcadian atmosphere commonly found in mythological themes. The drawing's style reflects a classical tradition inspired by ancient Greek or Roman visual culture, emphasizing the timeless quality of pastoral idylls.
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This is a drawing depicting mythological figures in a serene outdoor landscape. The figures are shown enjoying leisurely activities like reclining and playing musical instruments. The scene features trees, vases, and a statue hinting at classical influence. The environment exudes a sense of harmony and relaxation, evoking a pastoral or Arcadian atmosphere commonly found in mythological themes. The drawing's style reflects a classical tradition inspired by ancient Greek or Roman visual culture, emphasizing the timeless quality of pastoral idylls.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Bacchanal

Jacob Wilhelm Mechau after Giulio Carpioni

Date
1770
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 24.2 x 29.9 cm (9 1/2 x 11 3/4 in.) sheet: 25.4 x 33.1 cm (10 x 13 1/16 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
2005.20.1
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1751 to 1775
Department
CG-E

Subjects and terms

  • etching
  • German
  • Tree
  • child
  • portrait
  • Vase
  • Rock
  • Male nude
Provenance

(Kunsthandlung Helmut H. Rumber, Frankfurt am Main); purchased 2005 by NGA.

Inscription

lower left in plate: Jul. Carpioni pinx.; lower right in plate: Jac: Mechau fec: aqu. for 1770.

NGA object ID 131481. 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.