This is a drawing of mythical figures among trees and foliage. The scene features several figures, including a reclining figure with muscular features entwined with foliage and a goat, which is surrounded by smaller figures that resemble cherubs or putti, also adorned with vine leaves. To the right, two dynamic figures are depicted in a dramatic pose, with draped garments billowing; one appears to be carrying or supporting the other. The background includes tall trees with dense foliage and a slightly cloudy sky. The intricate linework suggests a focus on the play of light and shadow.
Read the visual description

This is a drawing of mythical figures among trees and foliage. The scene features several figures, including a reclining figure with muscular features entwined with foliage and a goat, which is surrounded by smaller figures that resemble cherubs or putti, also adorned with vine leaves. To the right, two dynamic figures are depicted in a dramatic pose, with draped garments billowing; one appears to be carrying or supporting the other. The background includes tall trees with dense foliage and a slightly cloudy sky. The intricate linework suggests a focus on the play of light and shadow.

National Gallery of Art · Portfolio

Bacchanal with Sleeping Bacchus

Michel Dorigny

Date
1650s
Medium
etching with engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 26.2 x 20.2 cm (10 5/16 x 7 15/16 in.) sheet: 38.5 x 26.8 cm (15 3/16 x 10 9/16 in.)
Classification
Portfolio · Print
Accession number
2005.127.8
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1601 to 1650
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
Recueil de douze Bacchanales

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Tree
  • Male figure
  • child
  • portrait
  • animal
  • Female figure
Inscription

upper right in plate: 7; lower right in plate: M. Dorigny invent. et fecit

NGA object ID 134417. 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.