Accession Number
81367
Medium
Red chalk on cream laid paper
Dimensions
18.4 × 23.7 cm (7 1/4 × 9 3/8 in.)
Classification
chalk
Credit Line
The Leonora Hall Gurley Memorial Collection
Background & Context
Background Story
Nicolas Poussin's Sketches of Inscribed Bases of Roman Columns is a red chalk drawing on cream laid paper. Poussin (1594-1665) was the greatest French painter of the 17th century, known for his classical landscapes and historical compositions. This drawing shows sketches of Roman column bases with inscriptions, reflecting Poussin's interest in classical antiquity and his practice of recording ancient Roman monuments.
Cultural Impact
Poussin's drawings of Roman antiquities document his study of classical sources, which informed his paintings throughout his career.
Why It Matters
This red chalk study of Roman column bases shows Poussin's scholarly approach to classical antiquity.
