Artwork

Fantasy of an Antique Tomb with Fragments of Architecture and Sculpture

Fantasy of an Antique Tomb with Fragments of Architecture and Sculpture, by Carl Schütz, ink, 1775
Fantasy of an Antique Tomb with Fragments of Architecture and Sculpture, by Carl Schütz, ink, 1775

Fantasy of an Antique Tomb with Fragments of Architecture and Sculpture is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Carl Schütz. It dates from 1775 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Fantasy of an Antique Tomb with Fragments of Architecture and Sculpture is an etching on laid paper created by Carl Schütz in 1775.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a fantastical, dreamlike scene featuring broken architectural elements and sculptures, with a giant hand holding a sign bearing cryptic letters. The composition blends ancient and imaginary elements, evoking a sense of mystery.

Technique & Style

Schütz employed etching to achieve precise, shadowy lines, incorporating intricate details such as patterns on the hand's sleeve and a distant cityscape. The technique allowed for a high level of texture and depth in the image.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Carl Schütz

Artist

Carl Schütz

Carl Schütz (1770–1780) was an artist.

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