Design for a frieze with a dragon
mid- 18th century
Classification
Drawing
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-3277
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
**Design for a Frieze with a Dragon** *Carlo Bianconi (Italian, 1732–1802), mid-18th century* *Drawing; Smithsonian American Art Museum* ed by Italian artist Carlo Bianconi during the mid-18th century, this intricate drawing presents a design for a frieze adorned with a majestic dragon. Bianconi, active in an era bridging Baroque opulence and emerging Rococo elegance, specialized in ornamental works that blended classical architecture with fantastical motifs. Friezes—continuous bands of sculpted or painted decoration—were staples in grand palaces, churches, and public spaces across Europe...