Artwork
The Divertissement from Voltaire's "La princesse de Navarre"

The Divertissement from Voltaire's "La princesse de Navarre" is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Gabriel de Saint-Aubin. It dates from 1745 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Gabriel de Saint-Aubin's 'The Divertissement from Voltaire's La princesse de Navarre' is a red chalk drawing on laid paper, created in 1745.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a vibrant scene of 18th-century figures in an opulent room, engaged in various activities such as conversation and music-making, likely illustrating a moment from Voltaire's work.
Technique & Style
Executed in red chalk, the drawing features loose, rapid lines and shading that convey a sense of energy, with soft shadows and textures adding warmth and depth to the scene.
Context
This sketch reflects the artist's practice of quickly capturing ideas or planning larger compositions, a common use of red chalk drawings during this period.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Gabriel de Saint-Aubin was a French draftsman, printmaker, etcher and painter.









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