Artwork

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina)

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina), by Giovanni David, ink, 1775
Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina), by Giovanni David, ink, 1775

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Giovanni David. It dates from 1775 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in plate: David Gen. Inv. fecit; lower center in plate: Femme de Palestrina / .........en ces emplois l'aube du lendemain / Souvent la trouve encore......... Bol. Sat. 10
Markings
Marked:none

About this work

Overview

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) is a print created by Giovanni David in 1775, utilizing etching and aquatint techniques on laid paper. The work depicts a serene yet active scene by the water's edge, featuring two figures engaged in fishing-related activities.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows a woman standing with her back to the viewer, dressed in a wide-brimmed hat and long coat, holding a fishing rod. Nearby, a man is bent down, possibly sorting nets or fish. The setting suggests a fishing village, with the title specifically referencing Pellestrina, implying a scene of everyday life in such a community.

Technique & Style

Giovanni David employed etching and aquatint to achieve detailed textures and shading. Notably, the artist used these techniques to convey the roughness of the water, the texture of the woman's clothing, and the natural elements of the shore, such as scattered shells.

History & Provenance

Created in 1775, specific details about the print's history and ownership (provenance) are not provided in the available information.

Context

The use of etching and aquatint reflects common printmaking practices of the 18th century. The scene's focus on everyday life in a fishing village aligns with interests in depicting common subjects during this period.

Legacy

Information on the direct influence, popularity, or significant exhibitions of Femme de Palestrina after its creation is not provided in the given context.

Italian Peasant Woman
Italian Peasant Woman, François-Philippe Charpentier

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni David

Artist

Giovanni David

Giovanni David (1743–1790) was an Italian artist, born in Cabella Ligure.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina)?

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) was painted by Giovanni David in 1775.

Where can I see Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina)?

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina)?

Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina)?

Museum-quality prints of Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.