Artwork

The Madonna and Child at Left, with a File of Angels

The Madonna and Child at Left, with a File of Angels, by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, ink, 1753
The Madonna and Child at Left, with a File of Angels, by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, ink, 1753

The Madonna and Child at Left, with a File of Angels is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo. It dates from 1753 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Madonna and Child at Left, with a File of Angels is an etching created by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo in 1753, falling within the religious art genre characteristic of 18th-century Italian printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a serene scene centered on the Madonna holding the Child, surrounded by additional figures, including a background male figure, set against a landscaped backdrop of trees and hills, conveying an overall atmosphere of calm and serenity.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work showcases detailed renderings of figures, attire, and facial expressions, leveraging the medium to achieve depth and atmospheric effects, though the described color usage appears to be a misattribution since etchings are monochrome.

History & Provenance

Created in 1753 by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, son and pupil of the renowned Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, the etching reflects the artistic lineage and printmaking techniques prevalent in 18th-century Italy.

Context

While the etching's style aligns with 18th-century Italian religious art, the mentioned reference to Romanticism is anachronistic, as this movement emerged later; the work is more closely related to the Baroque or Rococo styles of its time.

Legacy

As a print by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, the etching contributes to the broader legacy of the Tiepolo family's artistic contributions, though its specific impact or notable exhibitions are not detailed here.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo

Artist

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo (August 30, 1727 – March 3, 1804) was an Italian painter and printmaker in etching. He was the son of artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and elder brother of Lorenzo Baldissera Tiepolo.

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