Artwork
Footrest from the Villa Albani
Footrest from the Villa Albani is an ink drawing by the Neoclassicist artist Jacques-Louis David. It dates from 1778 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This drawing, created in 1778, is a work by Jacques-Louis David, a prominent artist of his time. It is executed in black ink and gray wash over black chalk on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a footrest from the Villa Albani. As a study of an everyday object, it reflects a common artistic exercise aimed at honing skills in rendering textures and shapes.
Technique & Style
The use of black ink and gray wash over black chalk demonstrates David's approach to capturing the form and texture of the footrest. The choice of medium and technique suggests a focus on detail and realism.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jacques-Louis David was born in Paris on 30 August 1748 into a bourgeois family; his father died in a duel when the boy was nine, and a maternal uncle guided his education.
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