Putti Testing a Man's Perception of Depth

c. 1613

Sir Peter Paul Rubens

Associated Names
Sir Peter Paul Rubens

Artist, Flemish, 1577 - 1640

This is a drawing of a bearded elderly figure interacting with three cherubic figures with wings in an interior setting that includes a study-like ambiance. The elder figure is seated on a chair adorned with intricate carvings. The posture is one of gesturing, as if conveying a lesson or a story to the three cherubs who are standing in front of a large desk or cabinet. On the desk are objects that resemble celestial spheres or globes. The room has substantial architectural features, with visible columns and detailed woodwork. The entire drawing is rendered in a monochromatic scheme, emphasizing study in tonal values and detailed line work.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown wash over black chalk, heightened with white, on laid paper; indented with a stylus and chalked for transfer on the verso

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 9.7 x 14.6 cm (3 13/16 x 5 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1982.104.1


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Paul Wallraf [c. 1897-1981]; (sold by his estate, Christie's, Amsterdam, 22 November 1982, no. 140); acquired by National Gallery of Art.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1995

  • Recent Acquisitions of Works of Art on Paper, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1995.

1997

  • Building a Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1997-1998, no. 8.

Bibliography

1978

  • Judson/Van de Velde 1978, 13a (as "whereabouts unknown ... ").

1982

  • Christie's, Amsterdam: 11/22/82, 36.

Watermarks

Two-headed eagle w/ emblem of Basel, a shield? below

Wikidata ID

Q64632553

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