
Read the visual description
This is a drawing of an ornate theatrical drapery. The image features a curtain being theatrically drawn apart by two sculpted figures on either side, revealing a symmetrical and decorative composition. Each figure appears draped in flowing fabric. The curtain is adorned with a variety of theatrical masks. At the apex of the drapery, a face smiles outward. Below, at the base of the composition, a collection of musical and theatrical symbols, including a lyre and open book. This drawing showcases a harmonious blend of classical motifs and theatrical symbolism.
National Gallery of Art · Drawing
A Cartouche with Theater Masks
Pierre-Philippe Choffard
- Medium
- pen and ink with gray wash on laid paper
- Dimensions
- sheet: 11.3 × 14 cm (4 7/16 × 5 1/2 in.)
- Classification
- Drawing
- Accession number
- 2012.120.1
- Credit line
- Gift of Nicolas Schwed
- Time span
- 1726 to 1750
- Department
- CG-E
Subjects and terms
- bird
- animal
- Female nude
- Snake
- Fabric
- Mask
Provenance
(Nicholas Schwed, Paris); anonymous gift to NGA, 2012.
Watermarks
van der L...
NGA object ID 160495. 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.