Artwork Page for Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

Details / Information for Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

c. 1761

Jean-Honoré Fragonard

(French, 1732–1806)
View all records in artwork set
Culture
France, 18th century
Medium
black chalk
Measurements
Sheet: 28.9 x 22.7 cm (11 3/8 x 8 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Joseph F. McCrindle 2009.152.a
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

Quick drawings could serve a variety of purposes, and it is not always clear today why an artist created a particular sketch. This one may record a painting Fragonard saw during a journey to Italy, or capture an idea he was considering for a painting of his own. Orpheus, identified by the lute, grasps for his love Eurydice as she is pulled down into Hades. The snarling animals near his feet may represent Cerberus, the multiheaded guard dog of the underworld.
A vertically oriented black chalk drawing on light paper depicts figures loosely outlined and shaded by dense diagonal hatching. Centrally, Orpheus stands looking back toward a winged figure behind him. Below him on our right, Eurydice lies on the ground with her right arm raised. The background is filled with energetic streaks of varying darkness. The paper has irregular, torn edges.

Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

c. 1761

Jean-Honoré Fragonard

(French, 1732–1806)
France, 18th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork