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The image features an elevated right perspective focusing on an architectural structure with columns, with a partially visible distant building. The horizon is indistinct, hinting at an urban environment extending into the distance. The sketchy pencil strokes convey form and shadow, creating a dynamic feel. The monochromatic color palette ranges from light to dark gray, emphasizing texture and composition. Detailed columns with capitals and draped fabric are close, while faint architectural features suggest a continuing urban landscape in the distance.
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The image features an elevated right perspective focusing on an architectural structure with columns, with a partially visible distant building. The horizon is indistinct, hinting at an urban environment extending into the distance. The sketchy pencil strokes convey form and shadow, creating a dynamic feel. The monochromatic color palette ranges from light to dark gray, emphasizing texture and composition. Detailed columns with capitals and draped fabric are close, while faint architectural features suggest a continuing urban landscape in the distance.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

A Balcony in the Roman Forum

Joseph-Marie Vien

Date
1744/1750
Medium
graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 19 x 12.9 cm (7 1/2 x 5 1/16 in.) page size: 42.5 x 27.7 cm (16 3/4 x 10 7/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
1983.49.202
Credit line
Mark J. Millard Architectural Collection
Time span
1726 to 1750
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Landscape
  • Italy
  • 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 62524. 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.