Artwork

Lot and His Daughters

Lot and His Daughters, by Joseph-Marie Vien, ink, 1748
Lot and His Daughters, by Joseph-Marie Vien, ink, 1748

Lot and His Daughters is an ink print by the Baroque artist Joseph-Marie Vien. It dates from 1748 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Lot and His Daughters, created by Joseph-Marie Vien in 1748, is an etching on laid paper depicting a scene of three figures in a rugged landscape. The work exemplifies Vien's affinity for classical themes.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates a moment from a narrative, likely biblical given the Latin inscription, showing a bearded man (Lot) flanked by two women (his daughters), one of whom is bare-chested, amidst a dramatic, rocky backdrop. The composition suggests themes of family and survival.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the piece showcases intricate, carved lines characteristic of the medium. Vien's style in this work, with its emphasis on classical subject matter and detailed rendering, would later influence the development of Neoclassical art.

History & Provenance

Produced in 1748, *Lot and His Daughters* was part of Vien's output during his rise to prominence, culminating in his appointment as Premier peintre du Roi from 1789 to 1791. The specific provenance of the etching is not detailed here.

Context

This etching reflects 18th-century artistic interests in classical and biblical narratives. Vien's engagement with such subjects contributed to the broader artistic transition towards Neoclassicism in the late 18th century.

Legacy

*Lot and His Daughters* contributes to Vien's legacy as a precursor to Neoclassical art, demonstrating how his classical themes and techniques paved the way for later artistic movements.

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.