The Animals Going toward the Ark

1650/1655

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Associated Names
Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist, Italian, 1609 - 1664

The image shows a pastoral scene with a broad landscape view from a slightly elevated angle. Towards the upper left background, a simple structure is visible alongside mountains and clouds sketched with light lines. The detailed brushstrokes consist of fine lines and cross-hatching creating texture and depth. The color palette is monochromatic with shades of sepia, black, and white typical of etchings. Various animals like horses and cattle, depicted with flowing manes and expressive eyes, are closest to the viewers. Figures dressed in loose clothing, perhaps shepherds or travelers, interact with the animals. Dense foliage rendered through clustered lines is seen on the right-hand side as a backdrop.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 22.5 × 42.2 cm (8 7/8 × 16 5/8 in.)
    plate: 21.3 × 41 cm (8 3/8 × 16 1/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1973.34.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 1


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1988

  • Graphic Survey Show, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., June 1988.

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

Inscriptions

lower left in plate: GB (in monogram) / Castilione / (not deciphered)

Wikidata ID

Q65568982

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