
Read the visual description
This painting depicts an elaborate design with abstract floral patterns and mythical creatures on a rich red background. The central focus is on two intertwined figures resembling mythological beings, surrounded by a complex pattern of swirling lines that resemble vines or branches. A symmetrical circular motif is at the top, with smaller circular shapes around it. The composition includes fantastical creatures like a horned, goat-like animal and small winged creatures. The painting features floral and celestial motifs, adding to its tapestry-like feel. The style is reminiscent of medieval manuscript illumination or early Renaissance works, known for detailed decorative patterns and mystical themes.
National Gallery of Art · Drawing
Adam and Eve in the Garden with Two Sheep and Two Doves
British 18th Century
- Date
- 1780s?
- Medium
- cut paper pasted to red-painted wood, the figures and animals touched with graphite, pen and brush with gray and brown ink
- Dimensions
- overall: 19.2 × 18.9 cm (7 9/16 × 7 7/16 in.)
- Classification
- Drawing
- Accession number
- 2013.172.2
- Credit line
- Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
- Time span
- 1776 to 1800
- Department
- CG-E
Subjects and terms
- plant
- bird
- animal
- Female nude
- Sheep
- Male nude
Provenance
(Samuel Gedge Ltd., London) ; purchased 2013 by NGA.
NGA object ID 163358. 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.