Artwork

Ornamental Medallions with the Adoration of the Magi and Two Bibliophiles

Ornamental Medallions with the Adoration of the Magi and Two Bibliophiles is a graphite drawing by the Baroque artist Hubert François Gravelot. It dates from 1737 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:around medallion in black ink: SS. TRES REGES P.N. O.P.N.; around right medallion in black ink: ACCEDUTE ET ILLUMINAMINI TOLLE LECE. / 1737; bottom center in black ink: GLORIA IN EXELCIS DEO; by later hand on support, upper left in graphite: 28; by later hand on support, lower right verso in graphite: II3

About this work

Overview

Ornamental Medallions with the Adoration of the Magi and Two Bibliophiles is a drawing created by Hubert-François Gravelot in 1737, executed in pen and brown-black ink with graphite on tracing paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing contains two distinct scenes within ornamental medallion frames: one depicting the biblical Adoration of the Magi, and the other showing two individuals immersed in books, possibly symbolizing the harmony between spiritual and intellectual pursuits.

Technique & Style

Gravelot's use of pen and brown-black ink with graphite on tracing paper demonstrates his mastery of line work and shading. The overall design reflects the Rococo style, characterized by intricate ornamentation and graceful curves, which Gravelot helped introduce to British design during his time in London.

History & Provenance

Created in 1737, the drawing is a product of Gravelot's period in London, where he had relocated from Paris in 1732. His work significantly influenced the adoption of Rococo aesthetics in British book illustrations and engravings.

Context

This piece embodies the cross-cultural artistic exchange of the early 18th century, as French Rococo elements merged with British tastes through Gravelot's illustrations and engravings.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of this drawing are not detailed, it contributes to Gravelot's broader legacy of popularizing Rococo in Britain, leaving a mark on the country's design and illustrative traditions.

Coat of Arms with Three Putti, Hubert François Gravelot

Artist & collection

Artist

Hubert François Gravelot

Hubert-François Bourguignon, commonly known as Gravelot (26 March 1699 – 20 April 1773), was a French engraver, a famous book illustrator, designer and drawing-master.