Illusionistic Architecture for the Vault of San Ignazio

1685/1690

Andrea Pozzo

Associated Names
Andrea Pozzo

Artist, Italian, 1642 - 1709

This is a drawing of an architectural ceiling or dome structure, viewed from below. The design includes geometric patterns, arches, and detailed embellishments. The use of perspective enhances the three-dimensionality of the structure. The shading delineates the angles and surfaces of the architectural elements.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and gray and brown ink with gray wash on two joined sheets of heavy laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Robert M. and Anne T. Bass

  • Dimensions

    overall: 50.4 x 91.2 cm (19 13/16 x 35 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.16.1

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Italian art market; Lodewijk Houthakker, Amsterdam (hand holding pen or brush, Lugt undescribed), acquired 1986; Hazlitt, Gooden & Fox, London (sale, April-May 1993, p. 14, pl. 27); purchased 1994 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1995

  • Recent Acquisitions of Works of Art on Paper, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1995.

1999

  • The Triumph of the Baroque: Architecture in Europe 1600-1750, La Palazzina de Caccia di Stupinigi, Turin; The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts; National Gallery of Art, Washington; Centre de la Vieille Charité, Marseille, 1999-2001, 505.

2000

  • Art for the Nation: Collecting for a New Century, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2000-2001.

2023

  • Looking Up: Studies for Ceilings, 1550-1800, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 2023.

Bibliography

1989

  • Fuhring, Peter. Design into Art, Drawings for Architecture and Ornament: The Lodewijk Houthakker Collection. 2 vols. London, 1989: no. 313.

Wikidata ID

Q64535758

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