Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History



  • The Fall of Phaeton, third quarter of 19th century
    Adolphe David (French, 1828–1896)
    Onyx

    2 1/4 x 3 in. (56 x 76 mm)
    Signed: A. DAVID
    The Milton Weil Collection, 1940 (40.20.12)

    Phaeton, son of the sun god Apollo, rashly insisted on driving his father's chariot. Here, we witness the outset of his inexorable descent through the heavens after losing control of the quadriga. For this tour de force, Adolphe David drew on ancient glyptic typologies. He cut through three strata to set off the foremost horse and clouds in ocher and made reins from the threadlike remains of the middle white layer. Equally finely characterized at the top left are three signs of the zodiac. All are set against deathly, polished jet black. The sizable gem was conceived as an exhibition performance; David often showed cameos at the Paris Salon.

    This work of art also appears on Connections: Small Things

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    On view: Gallery 556
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    The Fall of Phaeton, third quarter of 19th century
    Adolphe David (French, 1828–1896)
    Onyx

    2 1/4 x 3 in. (56 x 76 mm)
    Signed: A. DAVID
    The Milton Weil Collection, 1940 (40.20.12)


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