Architectural Fantasy with a Pyramidal Mausoleum

c. 1747

Charles Michel-Ange Challe

Associated Names
Charles Michel-Ange Challe

Artist, French, 1718 - 1778

The image shows a pyramid-shaped structure with an ornate facade and sculptures on different levels. Steps lead up to a classical entrance with columns. Small figures are visible on the pyramid, suggesting scale. In the distance, tall structures can be seen with softened outlines. The horizon line is obscured by these distant shapes, creating depth. The style features loose brushstrokes emphasizing line and form. The color palette is monochromatic, with shades of sepia and brown. Various elements balance the composition, including a column with a figure on top and a carved pedestal.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown wash on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 20.6 x 27.7 cm (8 1/8 x 10 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1986.6.1

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Walter C. Baker; (sale, New York, Sotheby's, 21 January, 1983); (purchased by Gallerie Cailleux, Paris); purchased by NGA, 1986.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1960

  • The Walter C. Baker Collection of Drawings. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1960.

1985

  • Oeuvres de Jeunesse de Watteau à Ingres, Galerie Cailleux, Paris, June-July, 1985, no.4.

Bibliography

1962

  • Virch, Claus. Master Drawings in the Collection of Walter C. Baker. 1962, no. 75 (a later catalogue for the 1960 Met exhibition which was accompanied only by an article the Museum's Bulletin).

Wikidata ID

Q64538735

You may be interested in

Loading Results