Artwork preview

Heraclius Sentencing the Tyrant Phocas

Pierre Woeiriot

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a royal figure overseeing a dramatic scene involving burning books or documents. The monochromatic drawing shows a regal scene where a figure sits on an ornate chair, pointing to a pile of burning books or scrolls with smoke rising. Surrounding the figure are armed guards, and in the background are an assembly of people, a dome-topped building, and other architectural elements. The drawing is detailed, showing texture in clothing, expressive faces, and motion in the flames and smoke.

Artwork Details

Medium
engraving
Dimensions
3372 × 4419 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original