This is a drawing of two figures and a cherub-like being. The drawing is executed in a soft reddish-brown medium. On the left, a figure is depicted in profile, holding a staff or walking stick. On the right, another figure is engaged in a dynamic pose, gesturing up towards a small cherub floating above. The cherub is depicted with simplified features and wings. The composition is contained within a rectangular border, emphasizing the figures and their interactions. The minimalist linework suggests it could be a draft or study for a larger work.
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This is a drawing of two figures and a cherub-like being. The drawing is executed in a soft reddish-brown medium. On the left, a figure is depicted in profile, holding a staff or walking stick. On the right, another figure is engaged in a dynamic pose, gesturing up towards a small cherub floating above. The cherub is depicted with simplified features and wings. The composition is contained within a rectangular border, emphasizing the figures and their interactions. The minimalist linework suggests it could be a draft or study for a larger work.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

An Apostle Guided by an Angel

Agostino Masucci

Medium
red chalk on laid paper
Dimensions
mount: 46.1 x 29.4 cm (18 1/8 x 11 9/16 in.) sheet: 7.1 x 9.4 cm (2 13/16 x 3 11/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
2009.70.163.c
Credit line
Joseph F. McCrindle Collection
Time span
1651 to 1700
Department
CG-E

Subjects and terms

  • Man
  • Cherub
Provenance

Sir Robert L. Mond [1867-1938], London (Lugt 2813a) as by Carlo Maratta; sale, Christie's, London, 7 July 1959, lot 139; (P. & D. Colnaghi & Co., Ltd., London [stock no. A23760 CO, written at lower right in graphite on the mount]); Joseph F. McCrindle [1923-2008], New York, 1959; Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation, 2008; gift to NGA, 2009.

Watermarks

partial, six-pointed star within a circle, probably surmounted by a Latin cross (close to Briquet 2089)

NGA object ID 152255. 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.