Untitled
The Met
Artist: Unidentified
Date: ca. 1800
Department: Asian Art
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Ink and wash on J. Whatman paper watermarked 1798
Dimensions: Sheet (folded): 16 1/8 × 10 1/16 in. (41 × 25.5 cm) Sheet: 16 1/8 × 20 1/8 in. (41 × 51.1 cm)
Credit Line: Purchase, Friends of Asian Art Gifts, 2021
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
Intricately detailed line drawing of an architectural column, capital, figures, and decorative motifs
Detailed Description
The image is a monochrome line drawing depicting a highly ornate architectural column and its capital, rendered in fine black lines on a light-colored, plain background. The column is positioned on the left side of the vertical page, leaving the right half mostly blank. The capital, at the top, consists of multiple horizontal bands of intricate decoration. The uppermost band features a series of small, standing figures, some appearing to hold objects or make gestures, separated by architectural elements. Below this, a band of repeating geometric or floral motifs is visible. The central feature of the capital is a large, stylized face, possibly a lion or mythical creature, with wide, staring eyes, a prominent nose, and a wide mouth, flanked on either side by a volute resembling an elephant's head. Further decorative bands with repeating patterns are beneath this central face. The column shaft extends downwards from the capital. A large, standing figure is carved into the shaft, depicted with multiple arms, wearing an elaborate, tall crown, necklaces, and a draped garment. This figure holds various objects in its hands, including what appears to be a staff and a conch-like item. To the left of this main figure, a smaller, standing figure is also visible, similarly attired. The lower section of the column shaft continues with more decorative bands and smaller architectural niches, one of which contains a tiny, standing figure.
Generated by gemini-2.5-flash
