Martyrdom of a Female Saint

18th century

Follower of Francesco Fontebasso

Associated Names
Francesco Fontebasso

Related Artist, Venetian, 1709 - 1769

The image displays various human and mythological figures. In the forefront, there are men and women, one of whom is on horseback and appears to be reading from a book. One cloaked figure points upwards, while another man interacts with a reclining woman. A bald man with a beard is listening intently, and a kneeling woman is to the right. The figures wear flowing robes characteristic of classical styles. In the background is a large architectural structure with arches and a domed top. Above the central figures are three flying cherubs or putti amidst clouds. A large female statue with folded arms is near the center. Several background figures also seem involved in the scene. The image is primarily in sepia tones, giving it an aged look.

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 brown ink, brush and brown ink, and brown wash, heightened with white, on prepared laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Malcolm W. Bick

  • Dimensions

    overall (approximate): 51.4 x 39.2 cm (20 1/4 x 15 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1973.64.10


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Christian M. Nebehay, Vienna, by 1906); J.V. Novak (Lugt 1949); (Christian M. Nebehay, Vienna, c. 1969); Malcolm M. BIck, Springfield, MA, by 1973); gift to NGA in 1973.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1974

  • Recent Acquisitions and Promised Gifts: Sculptures, Drawings, Prints. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1974:205.

1990

  • Magrini, Marina. "Francesco Fontebasso-I disegni," Saggi e Memorie di Storia dell'Arte 17, 1990: 168 note 17, 195, under no. 197.

Inscriptions

in later hand, upper center verso: 7.; lower left verso: 1); lower right verso: XXI/10/ #7

Wikidata ID

Q64562069

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