Artwork preview

Cloud-Borne Saints above a Lake

Nicola Malinconico

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a celestial scene with numerous figures on clouds. The image depicts a gathering of beings, all intricately detailed and set within a circular frame. The central area is bustling with figures draped in flowing robes, sitting and conversing on billowing clouds. Around the edges, cherub-like figures playfully interact. Below the clouds, a serene landscape with greenery and a waterway can be seen. The drawing employs delicate lines and shading to give a sense of dimension and movement. The central framing and the flourish of details lend an ornate and theatrical aspect to the artwork.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1695
Medium
pen and brown ink with brown wash and traces of black chalk, on beige laid paper with three of the four corners made up
Dimensions
3866 × 4899 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original