Jupiter was painted by Ubaldo Gandolfi in 1759.

Where can I see Jupiter?

Jupiter is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Jupiter?

Jupiter is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Jupiter?

Museum-quality prints of Jupiter are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Jupiter

Ubaldo Gandolfi , 1759

Jupiter is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Ubaldo Gandolfi. It dates from 1759 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Markings: Marked:Sir Robert Mond, London [1867 – 1938], London (Lugt 2813a)

About this work

Overview

Ubaldo Gandolfi's 'Jupiter' is a drawing created circa 1759, exemplifying the late-Baroque style. Executed in pen, brown ink, brown wash, and black chalk on laid paper, it showcases the artist's skill in capturing dynamic movement.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a reclining, muscular male figure, likely Jupiter, holding a staff with a snake. The figure's wild hair and leafy crown suggest a mythological or allegorical character, consistent with Gandolfi's known subject matter.

Technique & Style

Gandolfi employed loose, expressive lines and tonal contrasts to convey energy and movement. The use of brown ink and wash lends the work a soft, sketchy quality, indicating a rapid study rather than a finished piece.

History & Provenance

The drawing is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, a testament to Gandolfi's prominence as an artist in late-Baroque Italy, particularly in the Bologna region where he worked alongside his brother Gaetano.