Allegory of Painting

1637/1638

Italian 17th Century, after Pietro Testa

Associated Names
Pietro Testa

Artist After, Italian, 1612 - 1650

This is a drawing of a scene with various human figures, landscapes, and putti. The artwork is densely populated with figures in a pastoral setting. In the upper part of the image, a group of putti is depicted amidst lush foliage from a tall tree. The scene is framed with trees on both sides, and the composition suggests depth with the land extending into the background. The foreground features an assembly of individuals, including seated and standing figures engaging with one another, some gesturing. Different activities are occurring in different sections, suggesting multiple interactions. The cross-hatching technique and careful line work give the drawing dimension and texture.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed to border line): 25.9 x 32.4 cm (10 3/16 x 12 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1972.66.46

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 29 (copy)


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2006

  • "The Early Modern Painter-Etcher", Arthur Ross Gallery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia; The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota; Smith College Museum of Art, Northampton, 2006, no. 33.

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821: no 29 (copy)

1988

  • Cropper, Elizabeth. Pietro Testa 1612 - 1650: Prints and Drawings. Philadelphia, 1988: no. 37, copy a2?

Wikidata ID

Q65576308

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