Study of balusters and sculptural motifs
Medium
ornament
Classification
ornament
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Noah Butkin
Accession Number
1977-110-1-3
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
In the late 1750s to 1770s, French artist Jean-Robert Ango captured the intricate beauty of Roman architectural details his *Study of bal and sculptural motifs*. in Rome during this vibrant period—a hub for European on the Grand Tour—o documented classical-inspired elements balusters (elegant, vase-like supports for railings) sculptural motifs. These preparatory drawings reflect the era's fascination with antiquity, blending French Rococo finesse with emerging Neoclassical precision as designers revived ancient forms for modern palaces and gardens. As an ornamental study, this work exemplifie...