Who painted The Borghese Cybele?

The Borghese Cybele was painted by Augustin Pajou in 1754.

Where can I see The Borghese Cybele?

The Borghese Cybele is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Borghese Cybele?

The Borghese Cybele is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Borghese Cybele?

Museum-quality prints of The Borghese Cybele are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Borghese Cybele

Augustin Pajou , 1754

The Borghese Cybele is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Augustin Pajou. It dates from 1754 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower center in brown ink: Villa Borghese, Rome; in later hand, upper left verso in pencil: III 35 / H 6.186 / L0.114

About this work

Overview

The Borghese Cybele is a drawing by Augustin Pajou, created in 1754, executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash over black chalk on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a robed figure on a pedestal, wearing a tall crown and a flowing cloak, and pointing forward with one hand. The figure is likely a representation of an ancient goddess, possibly Cybele, as suggested by the artist's inscription 'Villa Borghese', referencing the likely original location of the statue.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by loose and quick lines, with light shading and some smudged areas, showcasing Pajou's spontaneous and expressive style.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Augustin Pajou

Augustin Pajou (French pronunciation:; 19 September 1730 – 8 May 1809) was a French sculptor, born in Paris. At eighteen he won the Prix de Rome, and at thirty exhibited his Pluton tenant Cerbère enchaîné (now in the Louvre).