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This is a drawing of a scene under draped curtains with divine attributes. The drawing features a group of classical figures clustered together, enveloped in rich drapery. At the top, sunlight radiates from a crescent and star emblem. Below this light, figures are depicted with expressions of reflection or discovery. There is a use of chiaroscuro for depth. Some figures have symbols like books. Earthy tones and intricate lines suggest classical motifs and composition.
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This is a drawing of a scene under draped curtains with divine attributes. The drawing features a group of classical figures clustered together, enveloped in rich drapery. At the top, sunlight radiates from a crescent and star emblem. Below this light, figures are depicted with expressions of reflection or discovery. There is a use of chiaroscuro for depth. Some figures have symbols like books. Earthy tones and intricate lines suggest classical motifs and composition.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Allegory on the Death of the Dauphin

Gilles Demarteau, the Elder after Charles-Nicolas Cochin II

Date
1767
Medium
chalk manner printed in red-brown on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 35.5 x 22.5 cm (14 x 8 7/8 in.) sheet: 46.3 x 32.3 cm (18 1/4 x 12 11/16 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1988.33.1
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1751 to 1775
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • government
  • allegory
  • crayon-manner engraving
Inscription

lower left in plate: C.N. Cochin filius inv.et delin.; lower right in plate: Demarteau l'Aine sculp.; across bottom in plate: Nempe quod injecit secreta modestia, velum / Scinditur, et vitae gloria morte patet ausen. / LA MORT A REVELE LE SECRET DE SA VIE.; lower left in plate: No. 141 de l'oeuvre; lower center in plate: A Paris ches Demarteau Graveur du Roi, rue de / la Pelterie a la Cloche.; lower center below plate mark in graphite: Allegorie sur les Vertus et Occupations du Dauphin.; lower center in graphite: rB

NGA object ID 70404. 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.