Artwork preview

Italian Comedians Taking Their Bows

Antoine Watteau

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a group of figures in an architectural setting. The image uses soft, sketchy lines in a reddish hue on a light background. The figures are arranged informally, some facing the viewer, others interacting. Architectural elements like columns or pillars frame the group. Gestural lines convey movement and vitality, while shading adds volume to the figures and space.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1718
Medium
red chalk and graphite on cream laid paper
Dimensions
4202 × 4031 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original