Artwork

Statue of a Roman Woman (Female Deity?) Seen from the Side [verso]

Statue of a Roman Woman (Female Deity?) Seen from the Side [verso], by Hubert Robert, chalk, 1760
Statue of a Roman Woman (Female Deity?) Seen from the Side [verso], by Hubert Robert, chalk, 1760

Statue of a Roman Woman (Female Deity?) Seen from the Side [verso] is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Hubert Robert. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This black chalk drawing, created circa 1760 by French artist Hubert Robert, depicts a Roman woman, possibly a deity, viewed from the side. The work is executed on the verso of a sheet.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a Roman woman or potential female deity, highlights Robert's fascination with classical antiquity. The focus on a solitary figure, rather than his typical landscape or architectural scenes, suggests an exploration of ancient sculpture.

Technique & Style

Rendered in delicate, linear black chalk, the drawing showcases Robert's adherence to a refined, precise technique, characteristic of his engagement with classical motifs.

History & Provenance

Created around 1760, the drawing aligns with Robert's period of intense interest in antique elements. Provenance details are not specified.

Context

Within Robert's oeuvre, dominated by landscape and capricci with ruins, this piece stands out for its concentration on a classical figure, underscoring his broader artistic dialogue with the past.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hubert Robert

Artist

Hubert Robert

Hubert Robert (French pronunciation: ; 22 May 1733 – 15 April 1808) was a French painter in the school of Romanticism, noted especially for his landscape paintings and capricci, or semi-fictitious picturesque depictions of ruins in Italy…

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