Mythological Composition with Chronos and Harpies [recto]

Giovanni Battista Cipriani

Associated Names
Giovanni Battista Cipriani

Artist, Italian, 1727 - 1785

This is a drawing of mythological figures in a dynamic scene. The central figure holds a tall staff with an expressive stance. Wing-like shapes are behind the central figure. Below, smaller figures resembling cherubs or similar beings with wings are present. To the left, another figure is in a seated or reclining position. Soft, flowing lines and a reddish hue give the drawing a classical and elegant feel. The scene captures an energetic moment in time.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    red chalk on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 21.9 x 27.8 cm (8 5/8 x 10 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1992.73.1.a

Associated Artworks

The image features a pencil sketch focusing on two human figures, showing only their hands and part of an arm. On the left, a hand is extended with gracefully curved fingers. This hand appears to be emerging from flowing fabric. On the right, an arm is visible, bent at the elbow, with a hand resting on the upper arm. The lines are bold, capturing the anatomy of the hand with shading for volume and texture. There are no facial features or hair visible. The background is an aged paper surface with faint lines and discoloration.

Study of Two Putti and a Draped Arm [verso]

Giovanni Battista Cipriani

1727

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Mr. Christopher Powney; Purchase, NGA, 1992

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower right in graphite: Cipriani

Wikidata ID

Q64572310

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