Brutus Condemning His Sons to Death

c. 1760

Gabriel François Doyen

Associated Names
Gabriel François Doyen

Artist, French, 1726 - 1806

This is a drawing of a group of figures in a dynamic scene. The drawing showcases several sketches of people intermingled in what appears to be an animated gathering or event within a room. The central figure seems to be reclined or in a seated position, surrounded by other figures who appear to be engaged in expressive postures. The artist uses fluid, sweeping lines and shading to suggest movement and depth, capturing a sense of drama and motion in the composition. There is a play of light and shadow, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the scene. The overall atmosphere implies a historical or mythological setting, as suggested by the attire and architectural elements in the background.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    black chalk and white chalk with stumping

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 42.5 x 53.4 cm (16 3/4 x 21 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2010.128.1


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Louis-Antoine Prat, Paris; (Galerie Motte Masselink, Paris); purchased 2010 by NGA.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

by later hand, lower right verso on label: 27 Inv. No 423

Wikidata ID

Q64570985

You may be interested in

Loading Results