Artwork
Angel Holding a Palm and a Crown
Angel Holding a Palm and a Crown is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Jean Honoré Fragonard. It dates from 1764 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Angel Holding a Palm and a Crown is a 1764 etching by Jean Honoré Fragonard, characterized by its simple composition and expressive use of line work.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, an angel, conveys gentleness while holding symbols of triumph (a golden crown) and martyrdom or recognition (a green palm branch), suggesting a nuanced interpretation of victory or sacrifice.
Technique & Style
Executed in drypoint, the etching features fine, scratchy lines with blurry edges, showcasing the direct, hand-driven quality of the technique, where a needle scratches a metal plate to retain ink.
History & Provenance
Created in 1764, specific details about the work's provenance and historical context are not provided in the available information.
Context
While Fragonard is more commonly associated with painting, this etching demonstrates his exploration of printmaking techniques, highlighting the unique textural qualities of drypoint.
Legacy
The legacy of 'Angel Holding a Palm and a Crown' lies in its representation of Fragonard's versatility across mediums and his contribution to the expressive potential of drypoint etching.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Honoré Fragonard was born on 5 April 1732 in Grasse, the son of a glover, and moved with his family to Paris in 1738.
