Artwork

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy), by Jules-Elie Delaunay, graphite, 1876
Navigation (Allegory of the Navy), by Jules-Elie Delaunay, graphite, 1876

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Jules-Elie Delaunay. It dates from 1876 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:by the artist at lower right in graphite: NAVIGATION / à mon ami Chabrol / JElie Delaunay / 1876

About this work

Overview

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) is a drawing by Jules-Elie Delaunay, executed in 1876. Composed with black and white chalk and graphite on light brown wove paper, the work is now part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a muscular, short-haired man seated on the ground with legs bent to one side. Holding a long pole, his gaze directed to the right, the figure suggests engagement in a physically active, nautical-related task, alluding to themes of navigation.

Technique & Style

Delaunay employed a combination of black and white chalk with graphite on light brown wove paper, achieving a sense of depth and texture. The contrast between light and dark values implies the use of chiaroscuro, enhancing the overall visual impact.

History & Provenance

Created in 1876, the drawing is currently housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., as part of its permanent collection.

Context

As an allegory of the navy, the work reflects late 19th-century artistic and thematic interests in symbolism and maritime themes, though specific contextual influences or inspirations are not detailed in available information.

Legacy

Detailed information on the direct legacy or significant impact of 'Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)' on subsequent art or cultural discourse is not provided in the available sources.

A Seated Male Nude with His Hands Crossed over His Head
A Seated Male Nude with His Hands Crossed over His Head, Raphael Lamar West

Artist & collection

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)?

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) was painted by Jules-Elie Delaunay in 1876.

Where can I see Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)?

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)?

Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Navigation (Allegory of the Navy)?

Museum-quality prints of Navigation (Allegory of the Navy) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.