Study for a Decorated Initial A with the Annunciation
Medium
Pen and brown ink, heightened with white. Framing lines in pen and brown ink with some gold.
Dimensions
5 1/8 x 4 1/8 in. (13 x 10.5 cm)
Classification
Drawings
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1948
Accession Number
48.4.6
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's and Prints collection, this *Study for a Decorated Initial A the Annunciation* by-Marie Oppenord showcases the artist's mastery of ornamental design. Created as a preparatory sketch—date unknown—this small-scale work (just 5 1/8 x 4 1/8 inches) was likely intended for an illuminated manuscript or printed book, where grand initials often opened sacred texts with vivid biblical scenes. Rendered in pen and brown ink, heightened with white for luminous highlights, and accented by framing lines in and touches of gold, the drawing employs techniques that ...
About the Artist
Gilles-Marie Oppenord · 1672–1742
Born 27 July 1672; died 13 March 1742. French architect, designer, illustrator, Paris. Comment on works: Architect; Draughtsman; Engraver