Riviergod 1772 - 1773

"Riviergod" (River God), a 1772-1773 etching by Antoine Alexandre Joseph Cardon, depicts a reclining male figure, likely a representation of a river god. The figure, with a flowing beard and muscular physique, rests against an overturned urn, water cascading from its spout. The artist's careful attention to detail in the figure's anatomy and the flowing water adds a sense of realism to the composition. This piece exemplifies the artistic trend of the 18th century that focused on classical mythology and the representation of human form in idealized ways. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum.