Design for a Stage Set with a Palace and Bridge

Attributed to workshop of Carlo Galli Bibiena Italian

Attributed to workshop of Ferdinando Galli Bibiena Italian

18th century

Not on view

This drawing in pen and ink shows an architectural capriccio, or fantastical cityscape. The addition of curtains along the top and sides of the drawing identify the sheet as a stage design. The composition is characterized by the exterior of a monumental palace across the right side of the sheet. A bridge and river are depicted in the foreground on the left. The bridge is adorned with an obelisk, a torchière on a pedestal, a lantern, and a statue of an unidentified person on horseback. The austerity of the architecture and stylistic details of the design suggest a dating in the second half of the 18th century. Certain elements of the drawing may hint at Saint Petersburg as a possible location (or source of inspiration).

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Design for a Stage Set with a Palace and Bridge
Artist: Attributed to workshop of Carlo Galli Bibiena (Italian, Vienna 1728–after 1778)
Artist: Attributed to workshop of Ferdinando Galli Bibiena (Italian, Bologna 1657–1743 Bologna)
Date: 18th century
Medium: Pen and ink with wash over graphite
Dimensions: Sheet: 7 1/2 × 10 1/2 in. (19.1 × 26.7 cm)
Classifications: Drawings, Ornament & Architecture
Credit Line: Gift of Peter and Leni May, 2025
Object Number: 2025.803.1
Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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