Housetops behind a Wall

probably c. 1754/1765

Hubert Robert

Associated Names
Hubert Robert

Artist, French, 1733 - 1808

The image depicts a scene from an elevated viewpoint looking towards the horizon. Architectural elements, including buildings with arched openings and pitched roofs, are sketched with delicate pencil strokes. In the foreground, there are additional structures and figures outlined with smooth pencil marks. The drawing is monochromatic, using shades of gray to emphasize form and line. Faint outlines of buildings in the distance give depth to the composition.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    black chalk on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Julius S. Held Collection, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    Overall: 10.4 x 16.4 cm (4 1/8 x 6 7/16 in.)
    support: 15.6 x 21.5 cm (6 1/8 x 8 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1984.3.54

  • Series Title

    Album of Drawings: p.4

Associated Artworks

See all 32 artworks
The sculpture features a standing female figure draped in a long garment that covers most of her body, leaving her head and feet visible. The figure's head is slightly tilted, and her short hair is styled close to her head. She holds a portion of her clothing with one hand, creating an appearance of gentle motion in the fabric. The sculpture seems stylized, with simplified and smooth contours of the human form indicated. The drawing is monochrome, suggesting that the sculpture is likely a light-colored or marble material. The relative size and posture of the sculpture imply it stands at a similar height to humans but is depicted without intricate details, focusing instead on capturing the overall form and grace of the subject.

Statue of a Female in a Toga

Hubert Robert

1754

Album of Drawings

Hubert Robert

1754

This is a drawing of a classical statue. The image depicts a full-length figure in classical drapery. The figure wears a flowing robe that drapes over one shoulder and is gathered around the body. In the left hand, the figure holds an object resembling a cornucopia. The head is adorned with a laurel or helmet. The right arm is raised, but the specific gesture or object held is less defined. The drawing features soft shading and precise outlines.

Statue of Abundance [recto]

Hubert Robert

1754

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

David David-Weill [1871-1952], by 1928.[1] Julius S. Held [1905-2002]; acquired 1984 by the NGA.
[1]Henriot, Gabriel, Collection David-Weill, 3 vols. Paris,1926-1928:3:391.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1926

  • Henriot, Gabriel, Collection David-Weill. 3 vols. Paris,1926-1928:3: 391

Watermarks

present but not identified

Wikidata ID

Q64574740

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