Battling Tritons

1763

Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich

Associated Names
Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich

Artist, German, 1712 - 1774

The image shows mythological creatures in a struggle. A figure with a mermaid-like tail is in conflict with another figure. The tailed figure holds a large bone, preparing to strike the other being. Three other creatures are partially submerged in turbulent waters, observing or involved in the struggle. The background features dramatic waves and detailed reeds, adding to the chaotic scene. The drawing conveys movement, capturing a moment of tension and energy.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Ruth B. Benedict

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed to plate mark): 8.9 x 14.6 cm (3 1/2 x 5 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.60.15

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Linck 1846, no. 43

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Dr. Ruth B. Benedict (1913-1993), Washington; bequest to NGA, 1994.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1790

  • Heinecken, Karl Heinrich von. Dictionnaire des Artistes, dont nous avons des Estampes, avec une notice détaillée de leurs ouvrages graveés. Leipzig: Breitkopf, 1790 (reprinted New York and London 1970).

1846

  • Linck, J.F. Monographie...C.W.E. Dietrich. Berlin, 1846, no. 43

Inscriptions

upper right in plate: Dietriej 1763; by later hands, on verso in graphite: 4780 / SB 684 - vx s.b. 96

Watermarks

present but not identified

Wikidata ID

Q75122126

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