POELE dans le genre antique, avec quatre griffons aux quatre angles, propre à être isolé
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-407-1
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Louis-Gustave Taraval *POELE dans le genre, avec quatre griffons aux quatre angles, propre à isolé* (ca. 1791) is a captivating print showcasing the French artist's mastery of neoclassical design. Taraval (1738–1794), a prominent engraver and ornamental draftsman, specialized in intricate patterns for decorative arts, drawing inspiration from ancient Greco-Roman motifs. This work depicts a stately stove—*poêle* in French—adorned with four majestic griffons, mythical guardians symbolizing strength and protection, positioned at each corner. The phrase "propre à être isolé" suggests it was design...