Artwork
Genius of the Arts
Genius of the Arts is a print by the Impressionist artist Nicolas-François Chifflart. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2023.18.5
About this work
Overview
Genius of the Arts is a print by François-Nicolas Chifflart, part of his 1865 series Improvisations on Copper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a winged figure floating in a dark room, holding a torch and a lyre, suggesting a representation of artistic inspiration or creativity.
Technique & Style
Chifflart drew directly on copper plates, achieving a loose and spontaneous style that invites close examination.
Context
This work reflects Chifflart's role in the 19th-century French etching revival, characterized by experimentation and a return to direct drawing on metal plates.
Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolas-François Chifflart (1825–1901) was a French artist, born in Saint-Omer.
