The Choice of a Model
1871 National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
About this artwork
The painting depicts a group of 18th-century gentlemen gathered in a lavish interior to examine a nude model standing on a table. It is renowned for its intricate detail and its portrayal of the Rococo revival style popular in the 19th century.
Did you know?
Mariano Fortuny, a Spanish artist, created this masterpiece during the height of the Rococo revival, showcasing his immense skill in handling light and complex textures. Interestingly, the painting reflects the competitive nature of the art market at the time, where artists often showcased their technical brilliance through elaborate 'genre' scenes to appeal to wealthy collectors. This specific work is celebrated for its virtuosic brushwork that captures the shimmering surfaces of silk, gold, and marble.
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The Choice of a Model
Mariano Fortuny Marsal, 1871
