Artwork

Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome (Chinese Masquerade)

Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome (Chinese Masquerade), by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Pierre, ink, 1735
Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome (Chinese Masquerade), by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Pierre, ink, 1735

Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome (Chinese Masquerade) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jean-Baptiste-Marie Pierre. It dates from 1735 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome (Chinese Masquerade) is an etching created by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Pierre in 1735, depicting a vibrant street procession in Rome with a blend of cultural influences.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates a 'Chinese Masquerade' in Rome, featuring a parade with elaborately costumed figures in mixed European and Asian attire, accompanied by a decorated wagon, flags, lanterns, and distant architectural elements.

Technique & Style

Pierre employed etching techniques to achieve detailed, layered compositions, utilizing lines and shading to convey a sense of depth, crowding, and liveliness in the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1735 by Jean-Baptiste-Marie Pierre, specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

The work reflects 18th-century European fascination with Asian cultures, manifesting in the fusion of European and Asian elements in the masquerade's depiction.

Legacy

While the broader impact of 'Mascarade Chinoise faite a Rome' is not detailed in the provided sources, it exemplifies the artistic expression of cross-cultural curiosity during its time.

Artist & collection

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