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Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

c. 1761
(French, 1732–1806)
France, 18th century
black chalk
Sheet: 28.9 x 22.7 cm (11 3/8 x 8 15/16 in.)
Gift of Joseph F. McCrindle 2009.152.a
Location: not on view
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Description

Quick drawings could serve a variety of purposes, and it is not always clear today why an artist created a particular sketch. This one may record a painting Fragonard saw during a journey to Italy, or capture an idea he was considering for a painting of his own. Orpheus, identified by the lute, grasps for his love Eurydice as she is pulled down into Hades. The snarling animals near his feet may represent Cerberus, the multiheaded guard dog of the underworld.
Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

Orpheus and Eurydice (recto)

c. 1761

Jean-Honoré Fragonard

(French, 1732–1806)
France, 18th century

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