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An Architect

An Architect's Table, 1772

Thomas-Germain-Joseph Duvivier
French, 1735-1814
Oil on canvas
40-3/8 x 31 in. (102.6 x 78.7 cm)
Norton Simon Art Foundation
M.1976.02.P
© Norton Simon Art Foundation

On view

Thomas-Germain-Joseph Duvivier, one of Jean-Baptiste Siméon Chardin’s most talented pupils, began exhibiting still lifes at the Paris Salon in 1761. In this example, an architect’s desk is cluttered with the tools of the trade. Despite the items’ seemingly haphazard arrangement, Duvivier has carefully staged them to maximize their visual interest. The stasis of the heavy Ionic capital and stack of books contrasts with the delicate quill and unfurling plans. In addition, Duvivier has intentionally angled the capital, compass, ruler and quill toward the back left corner. Their leading lines guide our eyes toward the drawing of the doorway, suggesting the source of inspiration for the neoclassical building plans.

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