Statue of Alexander and Bucephalus [recto]

probably c. 1754/1765

Hubert Robert

Associated Names
Hubert Robert

Artist, French, 1733 - 1808

This is a drawing of a muscular nude figure holding a cloth in a dynamic pose. The drawing captures the essence of movement and muscle tension. The sketch is done in pencil or charcoal, evident from the various shades of grey and the use of line to convey form and depth. This composition suggests a classical theme with a focus on the human form, emphasizing anatomy and the natural flow of the human body. The loose lines and shading give a sense of fluidity and energy to the figure.

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    black chalk on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Julius S. Held Collection, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    Overall: 7.9 x 11.3 cm (3 1/8 x 4 7/16 in.)
    support: 15.6 x 21.5 cm (6 1/8 x 8 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1984.3.30.a

  • Series Title

    Album of Drawings: p.31

Associated Artworks

See all 32 artworks
The sculpture features a standing female figure draped in a long garment that covers most of her body, leaving her head and feet visible. The figure's head is slightly tilted, and her short hair is styled close to her head. She holds a portion of her clothing with one hand, creating an appearance of gentle motion in the fabric. The sculpture seems stylized, with simplified and smooth contours of the human form indicated. The drawing is monochrome, suggesting that the sculpture is likely a light-colored or marble material. The relative size and posture of the sculpture imply it stands at a similar height to humans but is depicted without intricate details, focusing instead on capturing the overall form and grace of the subject.

Statue of a Female in a Toga

Hubert Robert

1754

Album of Drawings

Hubert Robert

1754

This is a drawing of a classical statue. The image depicts a full-length figure in classical drapery. The figure wears a flowing robe that drapes over one shoulder and is gathered around the body. In the left hand, the figure holds an object resembling a cornucopia. The head is adorned with a laurel or helmet. The right arm is raised, but the specific gesture or object held is less defined. The drawing features soft shading and precise outlines.

Statue of Abundance [recto]

Hubert Robert

1754

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

David David-Weill [1871-1952], by 1928.[1] Julius S. Held [1905-2002]; acquired 1984 by the NGA.
[1]Henriot, Gabriel, Collection David-Weill, 3 vols. Paris,1926-1928:3:391.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1926

  • Henriot, Gabriel, Collection David-Weill. 3 vols. Paris,1926-1928:3: 391

Wikidata ID

Q64574712

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