Artwork
Three Herms
Three Herms is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Giovanni Mauro della Rovere. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Three Herms is a drawing executed around 1634 by the Italian artist Giovanni Mauro della Rovere. Rendered on gray laid paper, the work presents a composition of three herm figures, rendered in pen and black ink, enhanced with gray wash and selective white highlights applied over a black chalk underdrawing.
Technique & Style
The artist employed a layered approach, beginning with a black chalk sketch that establishes the forms. Over this base, pen lines define the contours, while a gray wash adds tonal depth. Strategic white heightening accentuates highlights, creating contrast against the dark underdrawing and lending a subtle three‑dimensional effect to the herms.
History & Provenance
Created in the early seventeenth century, Three Herms reflects della Rovere’s practice during the Baroque period. While specific ownership records are scarce, the drawing is documented as part of the artist’s oeuvre from circa 1634, illustrating his interest in classical motifs and the study of sculptural forms.
Artist & collection
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Figure Studies
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Figure Studies
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