Delafosse, Jean-Charles. (1734–1789)
Three Architectural Drawings of Versailles Details
Pen-and-ink drawing of three architectural details from Versailles by the French architect and painter whose work spanned the birth and development of the Louis XVI style. The drawing shows two garland-shaped details, one with a lion head and one with a human face, labelled "De la gallerie de Versailles"; and a female face surrounded by a garland with cherubs, labelled "de l'exterieure de l'église." At the lower left: "de Versailles." Numbered "12" at the upper right and stamped with the collector's stamp of Yves Beurdeley at the lower right. 6.5 x 9 inches, attractively matted with a gold border and Delafosse's name and dates on the mat, to an overall size of 11.25 x 14.25 inches (28.5 x 36 cm).Jean-Charles Delafosse was apprenticed in a sculptor's workshop, and worked as an architect, engraver and ornemaniste. He "was greatly influenced by Piranesi, whose drawings and prints he studied. He produced numerous pattern books and collections of prints, some of which were intended as designs for actual objects, whereas other were pure fantasies of ornamental choreography. His influence is apparent in many of the buildings and applied arts of the later eighteenth century – not only in France, but elsewhere in Europe. His most influential work was his Nouvelle Iconologie Historique, published in Paris between 1767 and 1785. Delafosse’s drawings, especially his most spirited designs, can be very spontaneously sketched and ‘painterly’ in nature, while his more practical designs are meticulously drawn and finished, since these were intended to be followed by craftsmen." (Mark Broch, Foolscap Fine Art.) (17403)
Art Art & Design