Artwork preview

The Death of the Virgin

François Boucher

National Gallery of Art

The artwork shows a group of individuals depicted from a side view, with most of them seated or crouched on the ground. Their full bodies are visible, and they are gathered closely around a central focal point that appears to be covered or wrapped in cloth. The figures have indistinct, sketched facial features and varying hairstyles. The clothing consists of long, flowing robes or tunics, with little detail other than the suggestion of folds and drapery. The scene is set against a softly defined background, with swirling lines and shades that imply smoke or cloud-like forms. The overall composition is drawn in a style reminiscent of an old, sketched study or draft, with dynamic lines and shading giving it an atmospheric quality.

Artwork Details

Date
1750s
Medium
pen and brown ink and brown wash over red chalk on cream laid paper, laid down
Dimensions
4083 × 3144 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original