Frontispiece

1865

François-Nicolas Chifflart

Associated Names
François-Nicolas Chifflart

Artist, French, 1825 - 1901

This is a illustration of a stone slab or monument with various figures around it. In the center, there is a large stone block with the text "Improvisations sur Cuivre par F. Chifflart." On top of the block, a winged figure is draped across it with a contemplative expression, arms folded. To the right stands a muscular figure reaching upwards with one arm. On the left, a figure with long hair leans against the block. Creative objects like an artist's palette and brushes are depicted below the block. The piece features sharp lines and dramatic contrasts, giving it a dynamic appearance.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching with drypoint on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    image: 32 x 24 cm (12 5/8 x 9 7/16 in.)
    plate: 31.9 x 23.9 cm (12 9/16 x 9 7/16 in.)
    sheet: 44.5 x 30.8 cm (17 1/2 x 12 1/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2002.136.1

  • Series Title

    Improvisations sur cuivre

Associated Artworks

See all 15 artworks

Improvisations sur cuivre

François-Nicolas Chifflart, Auguste Delâtre

1825

This is a drawing of an allegorical scene with mythical figures. The image portrays a central towering structure adorned with muscular, half-nude figures holding up a pedestal. On the pedestal, a seated figure holding a scale is depicted. Another figure stands slightly higher with raised arms, supported by wings. The figures below are depicted in a classical style. In the background, softly sketched scenes of an ancient landscape or ruins can be seen. The artist's signature is visible in the top left corner.

The Triumph of Justice and Truth

François-Nicolas Chifflart

1825

This is a drawing of figures engaging in grape-processing activities in a classical setting. The scene is rendered in a monochromatic palette, characteristic of etching, emphasizing the muscular figures with attention to anatomical detail and classical themes. The central figure has a dynamic pose and holds a long object, while another figure is tipping a basket. In the foreground, another figure appears to be playing a musical instrument. The background is filled with reclining figures, evoking a sense of revelry reminiscent of Bacchic celebrations. The drawing features flowing fabrics and simple backgrounds, giving it a timeless and mythological feel.

Grape Harvest

François-Nicolas Chifflart

1825

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

French private collection. (Artemis, Paris); purchased 2002 by NGA.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

in plate: IMPROVISATIONS / SUR CUIVRE / PAR / F. CHIFFLART / PARIS / F. CHIFFLART; by the artist, in center of image, in brown ink: a l'ami / Hubert, l'auteur / reconnaissant / FC.

Wikidata ID

Q76340084

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