Lyrical Poetry
Original title: Lyrical Poetry
kurzbeschreibung
Claude Augustin Duflos le Jeune produced Lyrische Dichtung around 1741 as an etching with engraving. A seated woman holding a book appears with two putti at either side, an allegorical embodiment of lyric poetry.
Description
The woman sits at the heart of the image in a long, twisting gown, a book in her hands. Two putti flank her, one of them beating a drum. Clouds and a patch of sky fill the background. Along the lower edge runs a text band inscribed Brevi Compositio together with a further reference to lyric poetry. The print stays within shades of grey and white.
Context
This sheet belongs to eighteenth-century France, when allegorical representations of the arts were widespread. Duflos le Jeune, an engraver, was known for fine reproductions and ornamental work. The etching probably served as an illustration for a series on the arts or as an independent piece; the commission itself is not recorded.
Impact
The calm seated figure and the playing putti give the layout a balanced, harmonious measure. The sweep of the gown brings movement into the scene and supports the elevated mood of poetry. Fine hatching lends the print an elegant, detailed appearance.
Technique
Etching and engraving combine here into precise linework and delicate shading. The paper has been trimmed to 26 × 23.6 cm, which suggests later framing or binding. The monochrome printing technique emphasizes the graphic design of the drawing.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)