Artwork

Dancing Couple

Dancing Couple, by Heinrich Aldegrever, ink, 1551
Dancing Couple, by Heinrich Aldegrever, ink, 1551

Dancing Couple is an ink print by the Northern Renaissance artist Heinrich Aldegrever. It dates from 1551 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Dancing Couple is a small-scale engraving created by Heinrich Aldegrever in 1551, exemplifying the detailed and lively scene-making for which the German artist was known.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a pair of dancers in a joyful, intimate pose, with the man and woman connected by a held hand and an arm around her shoulder, conveying a sense of dynamic movement and connection.

Technique & Style

Characterized by refined linework and nuanced shading, the engraving showcases Aldegrever's mastery of engraving techniques, particularly in capturing texture in the figures' attire and hair.

History & Provenance

Created in 1551 by Aldegrever, a prominent figure among the 'Little Masters,' this work follows in the tradition of detailed printmaking established by predecessors like Albrecht Dürer.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Heinrich Aldegrever

Artist

Heinrich Aldegrever

Heinrich Aldegrever or Aldegraf (1502–1555, 1558 or 1561) was a German painter and engraver. He was one of the "Little Masters", the group of German artists making small old master prints in the generation after Albrecht Dürer.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Dancing Couple?

Dancing Couple was painted by Heinrich Aldegrever in 1551.

Where can I see Dancing Couple?

Dancing Couple is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Dancing Couple?

Dancing Couple is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Dancing Couple?

Museum-quality prints of Dancing Couple are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.