The Fall of Phaeton

c. 1680

Raymond Lafage

Associated Names
Raymond Lafage

Artist, French, 1656 - 1684

This is a drawing of a scene featuring a muscular figure carrying a large structure on its back. The lines are fluid and expressive, conveying a sense of motion and weight. The figure's form expresses tension and physical exertion, with bold strokes creating a dramatic and urgent feel. The structure has decorative elements, giving it a classical appearance. The spiraling contours around the figure suggest powerful movement and struggle.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink over graphite on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Joseph F. McCrindle Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 26.2 x 20 cm (10 5/16 x 7 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2009.70.151

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

probably the painter Jean Ranc [1674-1735], according to the inscription. Joseph F. McCrindle [1923-2008], New York; Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation, 2008; gift to NGA, 2009.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2012

  • The McCrindle Gift: A Distinguished Collection of Drawings and Watercolors. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2012, 68-69, no. 23 (entry by Daniella Berman).

Inscriptions

by unknown hand, lower left in pen and brown ink: ce dessin provient / du Cabinet de Ranc.; by unknown hand (the artist?), lower right in pen and brown ink: Lafage fecit; by later hand, lower center in graphite (partially erased): Chute de Phaeton; by unknown hand, upper right in pen and brown ink: 44; by later hand, center verso in graphite: C:65/240; by unknown hand, lower right verso in graphite: 3289

Wikidata ID

Q64620196

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