Artwork

The Two Prophets

The Two Prophets, by Jean Honoré Fragonard, ink, 1764
The Two Prophets, by Jean Honoré Fragonard, ink, 1764

The Two Prophets 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

The Two Prophets is an etching on laid paper created by Jean Honoré Fragonard in 1764.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two men in a dramatic pose, one seated with long hair and a beard, the other standing and leaning over him. The standing figure holds a rectangular object, possibly a book or scroll, and gazes at the seated man, who contemplates with his eyes cast downward and hand raised.

Technique & Style

The etching technique on laid paper produces a textured, high-contrast image, with dark areas punctuated by lighter speckles, creating a sense of depth and drawing attention to the emotional intensity of the scene.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Honoré Fragonard

Artist

Jean Honoré Fragonard

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.

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