The image depicts a scenic view with a cluster of architectural structures, including buildings with tile roofs and a round tower. The structures are placed centrally and extend towards the right. The horizon is elevated and populated by these buildings, suggesting they are on high ground. The sketch is detailed and shaded, with fine pencil strokes giving it a textured, monochromatic feel. Close-up areas include a pathway and a small fence with softer outlines, adding depth. The buildings are meticulously drawn, transitioning into sketchier illustrations of the environment, like trees. The overall color palette is graphite gray and white, emphasizing contrasts against a textured paper background.
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The image depicts a scenic view with a cluster of architectural structures, including buildings with tile roofs and a round tower. The structures are placed centrally and extend towards the right. The horizon is elevated and populated by these buildings, suggesting they are on high ground. The sketch is detailed and shaded, with fine pencil strokes giving it a textured, monochromatic feel. Close-up areas include a pathway and a small fence with softer outlines, adding depth. The buildings are meticulously drawn, transitioning into sketchier illustrations of the environment, like trees. The overall color palette is graphite gray and white, emphasizing contrasts against a textured paper background.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

A Fortified Town in Italy

Joseph-Marie Vien

Date
1744/1750
Medium
graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 12.6 x 18.9 cm (4 15/16 x 7 7/16 in.) page size: 42.5 x 27.7 cm (16 3/4 x 10 7/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
1983.49.184
Credit line
Mark J. Millard Architectural Collection
Time span
1726 to 1750
Department
CG-E

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Italy
  • architecture
  • landscape
Provenance

Antonio Cesare Poggi (died c. 1836; Lugt 617); Charles Edouard Mewes; Mark J. Millard, New York; purchased by NGA, 1983.

NGA object ID 62506. 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.