Artwork

Villa Madama a Rome

Villa Madama a Rome, by Charles Percier, graphite, 1809
Villa Madama a Rome, by Charles Percier, graphite, 1809

Villa Madama a Rome is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Charles Percier. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in black ink: Dessine par Percier et Fontaine.; in cartouche, upper center: MAXIMUS.CLEMENS.VII PONTIFEX: in pediment, upper center: VILLA MADAMA / A ROME / V II CAHIER; in pediment, lower center: JULIUS.MEDICEUS / S.R.E.CARDINALIS.D; by unknown hand on mount, lower center in graphite: 51
Markings
Marked:WM: J. Whatman (on mount)

About this work

Overview

Villa Madama a Rome is a drawing by Charles Percier, created in 1809, using pen and gray ink with brown wash over graphite on cream wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the floor plan of Villa Madama, a grand house, surrounded by decorative frames featuring cherubs, coats of arms, and ornate designs, suggesting its intended use as a presentation drawing for a wealthy client or patron.

Technique & Style

The work combines simple, functional architectural rendering with elaborate decorative elements, showcasing Percier's skill in both draftsmanship and ornamental design.

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 Villa Madama a Rome?

Villa Madama a Rome was painted by Charles Percier in 1809.

Where can I see Villa Madama a Rome?

Villa Madama a Rome is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Villa Madama a Rome?

Villa Madama a Rome is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Villa Madama a Rome?

Museum-quality prints of Villa Madama a Rome are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.