The Four Times of Day

c. 1640

Charles Le Brun

Associated Names
Charles Le Brun

Artist, French, 1619 - 1690

This is a drawing of four mythological scenes. The image is divided into four separate panels, each showing muscular, mythological figures in classical settings with props like urns, drapery, and rocky landscapes.

The top left panel shows two figures in a pastoral setting with an urn on the right and a rooster. The top right panel depicts figures under a canopy or natural formation.

The bottom left panel features a seated figure resting against a tree with a jug nearby, accompanied by a companion. The bottom right panel shows figures in repose beneath a glowing urn.

The panels share stylistic elements like detailed hatching and robust figures, creating a classical theme linking nature, time, and human form.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    complete set of four etchings with engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Accession Number

    2007.18.1-4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Robert-Dumesnil, no. 4, State -7, iii/iv


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Paul Prouté S.A., Paris); purchased 2007 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1939

  • IFF (1600)

1967

  • Robert-Dumesnil, A.P.F. Le peintre-graveur francais, ou catalogue raisonne des estampes gravees par les peintres et les dessinateurs de l'ecole francaise, ouvrage faisant suite au peintre-graveur de M. Bartsch. Reprint (11 vols. in 6). Paris: F. deNobe

Wikidata ID

Q76337292

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