A Stage Design for an Opera with Actors

18th century

Workshop of Giuseppe Galli Bibiena

Associated Names
Giuseppe Galli Bibiena

Artist, Italian, 1696 - 1757

This is a drawing of a grand architectural interior. The image depicts a vast, elaborately decorated hall featuring numerous intricately carved columns and arches. The structure showcases a rich use of decorative stonework with twisted columns and ornate ceiling panels. The space is enclosed by a series of arches that suggest depth and grandeur, extending into the distance. The floor is composed of rectangular tiles leading the eye toward a focal point at the center of the composition. There are several statues alongside the architecture that add to the opulent and majestic ambiance, mimicking classical figures. The drawing utilizes contrasting tones to distinguish elements and create a sense of depth and three-dimensionality.

Media Options

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

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and black and brown ink with gray and brown wash on laid paper, laid down

  • Credit Line

    Gift of David H. McDonnell

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 31.43 × 49.53 cm (12 3/8 × 19 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2022.14.1


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(sale, Christie’s, Rome, 24 May 1988, no. 313). (sale, Christie’s Paris, 5 October 2015, no. 21); purchased by David McDonnell, Arlington, VA; gift to NGA, 2021.

Associated Names


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