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
An ornate architectural column with tiers of figures, animals, and decorative motifs
Detailed Description
The image is a vertical line drawing of an ornate architectural column, rendered in black ink on a light, off-white background. The column is depicted from its elaborate capital down to its base, showcasing multiple tiers of figures, animals, and decorative architectural motifs. At the top, a large, stylized creature head, resembling a lion or mythical beast with an open mouth and fangs, projects from the capital, facing towards the left. This creature is part of an intricately carved bracket, adorned with swirling scrollwork and floral patterns. Below the capital, the main shaft of the column is divided into several horizontal registers and vertical panels. On the right side, a prominent depiction features a figure riding a rearing horse. The rider, wearing a turban and traditional attire, holds a long staff or spear. The horse is richly decorated with intricate patterns and appears to be in motion. Below the horse, a smaller figure kneels. The left side of the column shaft and the areas below the horse and rider are filled with multiple smaller figures arranged in horizontal rows. These figures are depicted in various poses, some standing, some seated, and many appear to be holding objects or making gestures. They are dressed in traditional garments and adorned with jewelry. Towards the bottom of the column, more registers of smaller figures are visible, along with decorative architectural elements. On the far right, near the base, a large, coiled snake-like creature with a distinct head is depicted. The drawing features fine, precise lines, detailing each element, from the facial expressions of the figures to the patterns on their clothing and the architectural ornamentation.
Generated by gemini-2.5-flash
