Ornament Design with Burial Urn and Cameos
Medium
Drawing
Classification
Drawing
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Unknown Donor
Accession Number
1980-32-1454
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
In the late 18th century, artist Michel Angelo Pergoles, active from around 1760 to 1801, crafted intricate ornamental designs that bridged classical antiquity with emerging neoclassical tastes. His 1776 *Ornament Design with Burial Urn and Cameos*, a delicate drawing now in the Smithsonian American Art's collection (gift of an unknown donor), exemplifies this fusion. Created during a period of fervent revival of ancient Roman and Greek motifs across Europe, Pergolesi's work often served as templates for architects, furniture makers, and engravers, influencing elegant interiors in grand estate...