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This drawing depicts mythological figures within clouds. The scene shows ethereal figures with wings and flowing drapery interacting in the clouds. The central figure emits light, surrounded by other figures in admiration or worship. Cherub-like figures are present, some holding objects or instruments, while others gesture around the central figure. Cloud formations below feature dynamic figures in dramatic poses, enhancing the celestial ambiance. The drawing uses monochromatic tones and intricate linework for a classical and harmonious quality.
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This drawing depicts mythological figures within clouds. The scene shows ethereal figures with wings and flowing drapery interacting in the clouds. The central figure emits light, surrounded by other figures in admiration or worship. Cherub-like figures are present, some holding objects or instruments, while others gesture around the central figure. Cloud formations below feature dynamic figures in dramatic poses, enhancing the celestial ambiance. The drawing uses monochromatic tones and intricate linework for a classical and harmonious quality.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

Apollo and the Muses

Giuseppe Valeriani

Medium
pen and black ink with gray wash over graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
overall: 26.5 x 34.2 cm (10 7/16 x 13 7/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
1991.150.84
Credit line
Gift of William B. O'Neal, in Honor of the 50th Anniversary of the National Gallery of Art
Time span
1701 to 1725
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • Angel
  • Italian
  • Woman
  • Female nude
  • Horse
  • Cloud
Provenance

Member of the Russian imperial family; Maxmilien Eugène Joseph Napolèon de Beauharnais, 3rd duc de Leuchtenberg; Edmond Fatio, Geneva (sale Geneva, P. & D. Colnaghi & Co., Ltd., 1959); Seiferheld and Co., New York; William B. O'Neal [1907-1994], Charlottesville, VA, January 1961; gift to NGA, 1991.

NGA object ID 73539. 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.