Artwork

Friendship, Useless Friendship, and Hate

Friendship, Useless Friendship, and Hate, by Charles-Nicolas Cochin II, chalk, 1774
Friendship, Useless Friendship, and Hate, by Charles-Nicolas Cochin II, chalk, 1774

Friendship, Useless Friendship, and Hate is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Charles-Nicolas Cochin II. It dates from 1774 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1774 by Charles-Nicolas Cochin II, 'Friendship, Useless Friendship, and Hate' is a drawing that explores complex human emotions through a tight grouping of figures.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a kneeling man, gripped by despair, flanked by two women representing opposing forces. A pedestal between them bears the words 'Consentir' and 'Morceler', suggesting themes of agreement and division.

Technique & Style

Executed in red chalk with touches of black chalk on laid paper, the work showcases Cochin's skill in capturing nuanced expressions and postures.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.