Noah Leading the Animals into the Ark
Medium
black chalk and brown wash with white gouache on light brown laid paper (originally blue); laid down
Dimensions
overall: 41.9 x 55.6 cm (16 1/2 x 21 7/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Accession Number
2007.80.1
Art Historical Context
This striking drawing captures the biblical moment when Noah guides pairs of animals toward the ark, a theme symbolizing divine protection and renewal. Created in 1774 by French artist François-André Vincent after an original composition by the 17th-century Italian master Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, the work reflects the enduring appeal of Castiglione’s lively animal studies across Europe. Vincent, known for his Neoclassical approach, brings a refined clarity to the scene while honoring the dynamic energy of his predecessor. Executed in black chalk and brown wash heightened with white gou...