Who painted An Ancient Sacrifice?

An Ancient Sacrifice was painted by Clément-Pierre Marillier in 1800.

Where can I see An Ancient Sacrifice?

An Ancient Sacrifice is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is An Ancient Sacrifice?

An Ancient Sacrifice is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

An Ancient Sacrifice

Clément-Pierre Marillier , 1800

An Ancient Sacrifice is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Clément-Pierre Marillier. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

An Ancient Sacrifice, a pen and ink drawing with gray wash and white highlights on laid paper, is attributed to French illustrator Clément‑Pierre Marillier and dates to around 1800. The work presents a ritual scene set within an architecturally classical interior, populated by figures engaged in a solemn offering.

Subject & Meaning

At the composition’s centre a robed participant raises a bowl, suggesting the act of libation. Around him, a praying woman clasps her hands, while another figure stokes a fire in a large urn. The arrangement conveys reverence and communal participation in an ancient ceremonial practice.

Technique & Style

Marillier employs fine pen lines to delineate figures and architectural elements, while a gray wash supplies atmospheric depth. Strategic applications of white create highlights that model forms and suggest illumination from the central fire. The drawing reflects the detailed, narrative-driven approach typical of early‑19th‑century Romantic illustration.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1800, the piece belongs to Marillier’s body of work that catered to book illustration and decorative prints. Its provenance traces through private collections before entering the museum’s holdings, where it is displayed as an example of period drawing practice.