Artwork

Entrance to a Walled Garden

Entrance to a Walled Garden, by Joseph-Marie Vien, graphite, 1747
Entrance to a Walled Garden, by Joseph-Marie Vien, graphite, 1747

Entrance to a Walled Garden is a graphite drawing by the Baroque artist Joseph-Marie Vien. It dates from 1747 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Entrance to a Walled Garden is a 1747 drawing by Joseph-Marie Vien, a French artist who later held the position of Premier peintre du Roi. The work is executed in graphite on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a serene garden scene, featuring a pavilion with columns and a lone figure on the steps, gazing out towards the surrounding foliage. The structured garden entrance reflects a classical approach to landscape design.

Technique & Style

Vien employed soft shading to convey depth and used rapid, sketchy lines to capture the movement of trees and foliage, characteristic of the dynamic qualities associated with the Baroque style.

History & Provenance

Created early in Vien's career, Entrance to a Walled Garden predates his official role as Premier peintre du Roi, which he held from 1789 to 1791.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph-Marie Vien

Artist

Joseph-Marie Vien

Joseph-Marie Vien (18 June 1716 – 27 March 1809) was a French painter. He was the last holder of the post of Premier peintre du Roi, serving from 1789 to 1791, before it was abolished during the French Revolution.

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