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Open 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Visit
Open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission is always free

6th and Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20565

Sculpture Garden Extended Hours

Open late until 8:00 p.m. on select nights
Starting June 3
Exhibitions & Events
Featured event:

Block Party
Join us June 6
Art & Artists
Open Call

Artists Reimagining the Collection
Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Myth of Creation

1940

Stanley William Hayter

Associated Names

Stanley William Hayter

Artist, British, 1901 - 1988

The image features a mix of curving and angular lines overlapping on the canvas, creating a complex layered pattern. Within the lines, there are forms that may vaguely resemble a face or mechanical structure. Light and shadow give depth to the forms, creating a dynamic and floating appearance. The composition suggests a blend of organic and synthetic elements.

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Artwork overview

Medium

plaster print
Credit Line

Rosenwald Collection
Dimensions

overall: 24.9 × 20.2 cm (9 13/16 × 7 15/16 in.)
Accession Number

1945.5.1325
Catalogue Raisonné

Black and Moorhead 1992, no. 134

This is a painting of a comedic and busy scene in an antiquities shop or museum. The image shows an eclectic collection of artifacts displayed, including a partially opened sarcophagus with a vibrant sarcophagus to its right. Various sculptures and busts surround the scene, depicting mythical or historical figures contributing to the antiquated setting. The shelves are packed with a variety of vases differing in size and design, referencing ancient artifacts from different cultures. At the bottom of the image are scrolls, statues, and smaller objects adding to the chaotic yet fascinating atmosphere. The style resembles that of Thomas Rowlandson, known for vivid, satirical depictions and bustling compositions filled with lively detail. — Modern Antiques

Thomas Rowlandson

1811

Caricatures (volume VI)

Thomas Rowlandson

1756

Modern Antiques

Thomas Rowlandson

1811

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1992

Black, Peter, and Désirée Moorhead. The Prints of Stanley William Hayter: A Complete Catalogue. Mount Kisco, New York: Moyer Bell Limited, 1992, no. 134.

Wikidata ID

Q65084139

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