The Dragon and the Beast

1546/1556

Jean Duvet

Associated Names
Jean Duvet

Artist, French, 1485 - c. 1570

This is a drawing depicting a complex and dynamic scene rich in mythical imagery. The composition features an array of figures, both human and fantastical, interacting in a densely packed and intricately detailed environment. Celestial beings are shown descending from the clouds at the top of the image while various figures dressed in elaborate Renaissance-style attire gather around and engage with each other below. A large lion stands next to a dragon or beast-like creature in the lower right quadrant. Grand architectural structures are visible in the background, adding depth to the scene. The drawing is framed by an arched top, and the style resembles high Renaissance engravings with fine lines and meticulous attention to detail.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet ([irreg.] trimmed to plate mark): 30.1 × 21.6 cm (11 7/8 × 8 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1947.7.49

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Eisler 1979, no. 54, State ii/ii

  • Series Title

    Plate 16 from the Apocalypse

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(William H. Schab, New York); purchased by Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891-1979], 1947; gift to NGA, 1947.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1979

  • Eisler, Colin. The Master of the Unicorn: The Life and Work of Jean Duvet. New York: Abaris Books,1979.

Inscriptions

"IOHA / NNES / DV / VET / FAC" recto, on plate, on double-tablet at lower left. "HIST 15 / CAP 13 ET 16 / APOC" recto, on plate, on plaque at lower center. "arllal" verso, lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand.

Markings

"National Gallery of Art, LJR" vero, lower right, black stamped ink.

Wikidata ID

Q65077574

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