THORVALDSEN NIGHT WITH CHILDREN

 "Night With Children", Thorvaldsen. This is an exceptionally large and fine 19th century print of the sculptural relief, "Night With Children, Sleep and Death" which was the most popular work of the Danish sculptor Bertal Thorvaldsen (1770-1844).  The original relief that this print was modled on was created in 1815, this print depicts the winged figure of "Night" carrying two babies who represent "sleep" and "death". Influenced by Classical Greek art, Thorvaldsen work is a wonderful example of 19th century Neo-classicism. The print appears almost three dimensional as can be seen in the photos. What also makes this particular print exceptional is its wonderful, very large and dramatic original frame. More than two feet in diameter, it is "shadow box" style, solid black walnut, beautifully turned to produce a complex ogee. Both the frame and print are last quarter 19th century. Around the print is a gilded wood molding and a wide, white-washed gesso surround. We have taken the frame apart to clean the glass and then re-sealed it. The frame is in excellent condition and the print is also in very good condition. The white gesso surround has some wear.  24 1/2" diameter x 4" deep.  Price $495.

Item ID # 3777