Artwork

Gods and Goddess

Gods and Goddess, by Jacques-Louis David, 1786
Gods and Goddess, by Jacques-Louis David, 1786

Gods and Goddess is a drawing by the Baroque artist Jacques-Louis David. It dates from 1786 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Gods and Goddess is a drawing created by Jacques-Louis David in 1786, currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts three robed figures, likely gods or goddesses from ancient mythology, with the female figure possibly identified as Juno due to the artist's notation.

Technique & Style

The figures are rendered in simple, flowing lines, with loose drapery and a warm, aged tone to the paper, suggesting a spontaneous and expressive approach to drawing.

Context

Although created during a period when the Baroque style was influential, the simplicity of the drawing diverges from the dramatic intensity characteristic of Baroque art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques-Louis David

Artist

Jacques-Louis David

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.

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