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This is a drawing of a neoclassical architectural structure. The structure features a grand domed building elevated on a series of broad steps, with tall Corinthian columns supporting an entablature that is decorated with relief sculptures. Above the entablature, there is a balustrade adorned with statues standing at intervals. The building's entrance is centrally located at the top of the stairs, marked by a large arched doorway. The drawing emphasizes symmetry and balance, with a focus on geometric shapes and classical architectural elements such as the detailed columns and sculptural decorations.
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This is a drawing of a neoclassical architectural structure. The structure features a grand domed building elevated on a series of broad steps, with tall Corinthian columns supporting an entablature that is decorated with relief sculptures. Above the entablature, there is a balustrade adorned with statues standing at intervals. The building's entrance is centrally located at the top of the stairs, marked by a large arched doorway. The drawing emphasizes symmetry and balance, with a focus on geometric shapes and classical architectural elements such as the detailed columns and sculptural decorations.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

A Classical Temple

Louis Gustave Taraval

Date
c. 1780
Medium
pen and black ink with gray, brown, and green washes on laid paper
Dimensions
overall: 41.5 x 51.2 cm (16 5/16 x 20 3/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
1991.150.70
Credit line
Gift of William B. O'Neal, in Honor of the 50th Anniversary of the National Gallery of Art
Time span
1776 to 1800
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • exterior
  • architecture
  • Classical
Provenance

Seiferheld and Co., New York; William B. O'Neal [1907-1994], Charlottesville, VA, October 1971; gift to NGA, 1991.

Inscription

lower right in pen and brown ink: Taraval inv.; lower left in pen and brown ink: T.

NGA object ID 73524. 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.