Untitled c. 19th century

"Untitled" is an etching on paper by American artist William B. Closson (1848-1926), dated to the 19th century. This work is a small vignette depicting a scene from antiquity: a woman in flowing drapery, standing in front of a burning altar, is holding a scroll in one hand and a staff in the other. Two women are seated behind her in the foreground, with a third, more dimly lit woman standing behind them. The composition and subject matter suggest a scene of worship or sacrifice, with a distinctly classical feel. This etching is now a part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art collection.