35. Attributed to Claude Audran III
(1658-1734)
Design for a Theater Curtain

(click on image to print)
Audran: Design

Design for a Theater Curtain

Original drawing in black chalk and white gouache, 504 x 416 mm., ex collections: Lodewijk Houthakker; Hans Calmann, 1967. A finished compositional drawing on brown laid paper, laid down to another sheet. The complex, symmetrical composition employs three decorated arches, the central one being a fountain with figures of Apollo and Diana, and two musicians (real or sculpted) seated below. A low balustrade extends on both sides and a group of elegantly-dressed figures stand or sit at front center. Other figures, shrubbery, architectural elements are placed around and at the very top is an unrelated ornamental border, leading one to believe that the design is for a curtain, probably a theater curtain, and possibly for the stage of the theater at Versailles. Audran was for a time Watteau's master and was responsible for much of the decoration at Versailles and other palaces. A great deal of his work has been either lost or destroyed. This drawing was exhibited at the Noordbrabants Museum in 1976.

Inquire $6,500.00 Buy Now