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Rococo Cartouche with Allegorical Figures

Johann Daniel Herz the Elder

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an ornate classical frame with allegorical figures. The image depicts a richly decorated frame with swirling, rococo motifs. Within this intricate border, there are three figures: one seated, one standing, and one above, all dressed in flowing classical robes. The seated figure holds a staff-like object. The standing figure has a beard and a staff. The figure above appears winged. Delicately drawn architectural elements like the scrolled frame, cloud forms, and the way the figures interact within this composition hint at themes of storytelling or mythology. The line work is executed with fine detail, emphasizing the elegance and complexity typical of classical allegorical art.

Artwork Details

Medium
red and black chalk on laid paper
Dimensions
3498 × 5083 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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