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.
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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.