The image displays a complex arrangement of swirling lines and ornate shapes that form a series of arches and columns. In this abstract sketch, the curving lines and elaborate details resemble the grandeur of a classical architectural structure, with elements that evoke the image of a grandiose altar or stage. Figures positioned on and around the curves represent human forms, suggesting a historical and artistic scene. Flanking the central archway, there are figures that remind one of statues typically found adorning the facades of cathedrals or the interiors of grand opera houses, infusing the composition with movement and stability.
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The image displays a complex arrangement of swirling lines and ornate shapes that form a series of arches and columns. In this abstract sketch, the curving lines and elaborate details resemble the grandeur of a classical architectural structure, with elements that evoke the image of a grandiose altar or stage. Figures positioned on and around the curves represent human forms, suggesting a historical and artistic scene. Flanking the central archway, there are figures that remind one of statues typically found adorning the facades of cathedrals or the interiors of grand opera houses, infusing the composition with movement and stability.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

A Baldachin with a Painting of the Annunciation

Circle of Andrea Pozzo

Date
c. 1708 or later
Medium
pen and brown ink over graphite on two jointed sheets of laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 41.4 x 21.2 cm (16 5/16 x 8 3/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
2009.70.194
Credit line
Joseph F. McCrindle Collection
Time span
1701 to 1725
Department
CG-E

Subjects and terms

  • architecture
  • figure
Provenance

Joseph F. McCrindle [1923-2008], New York; Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation, 2008; gift to NGA, 2009.

Inscription

by artist, upper left in graphite (barely visible): --- un angelo si vol[?]; by artist, upper left in the same brown ink as the drawing: per ordine composito; by artist, upper right in the same ink: una croce / ligna; and below that: il padre eterno / sta nel mezzo / del arco; by artist, lower right in the same ink: invention del fra A Pozzo / fatto a Vienna

NGA object ID 143853. 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.