An Elaborately Sculpted Frame

Genoese 17th Century

Associated Names
Genoese 17th Century

Artist

The image displays swirling lines and curvilinear shapes creating an abstract composition. The flowing forms resemble intricate architectural details like ornate moldings or decorative plasterwork, suggestive of rococo style. The sketch also includes elements resembling a vase with foliage, adding organic form among the structured abstract lines. These features may evoke decorative elements found in classical interiors or grand palatial designs.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with gray and red-brown wash on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Joseph F. McCrindle Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 19.8 x 11.3 cm (7 13/16 x 4 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2009.70.15.a

Associated Artworks

The image displays swirling lines and curves intersecting with vertical and horizontal strokes in an abstract design. Some lines are reminiscent of architectural columns or scrolls, while others may suggest a human figure or rising plume of smoke. The forms blend into an intricate pattern resembling decorative motifs or fantastical landscapes.

An Architectural Study with an Atlantid

Genoese 17th Century

1600

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Joseph F. McCrindle [1923-2008], New York; Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation, 2008; gift to NGA, 2009.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2012

  • Grasselli, Margaret M., and Arthur K. Wheelock, Jr., eds. The McCrindle Gift: A Distinguished Collection of Drawings and Watercolors. Exh. cat. National Gallery of Art. Washington, 2012: 180 (color)(recto only).

Inscriptions

by artist?, lower center verso in pen and brown ink: amore / Si; by later hand, lower right in pen and brown ink: [AJ?]

Wikidata ID

Q64571079

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