Artwork

Barbara van Beck, A Bearded Lady

Barbara van Beck, A Bearded Lady, by Unknown, ink, 1630
Barbara van Beck, A Bearded Lady, by Unknown, ink, 1630

Barbara van Beck, A Bearded Lady is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Barbara van Beck, A Bearded Lady is an engraved print depicting a woman with notable facial hair.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving shows Barbara van Beck seated, wearing loose robes, with a bearded face and long hair. The accompanying text identifies her as a real person known for her unusual facial hair.

Technique & Style

The print is an engraving, a technique used to produce detailed images. The artist has used careful lines to render the subject's hair and beard, as well as the surrounding environment, including a dog, window, and desk with books.

Context

Engraving was a common method for sharing images before the advent of photography, allowing artists to disseminate their work widely.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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