1771
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Tomb of Death is a 1771 ink by Francesco Bartolozzi, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving depicts a dark, arched tomb with a figure on the right holding a spear. The figure wears a hooded cloak and has long hair. On the left, a woman with long hair and a snake-like tail sits on a ledge, her head in her hands. The background is dark, with smoke or clouds rising around the tomb. The engraving is detailed, with intricate lines and shading. The figures are expressive, with the woman appearing sad or despairing. The overall mood is somber and melancholic. The use of cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and texture, adding to the overall atmosphere of the piece. For more on the technique of engraving, look up the artist Bartolozzi, Francesco.
Francesco Bartolozzi (21 September 1727 – 7 March 1815) was an Italian engraver, whose most productive period was spent in London. He is noted for popularizing the "crayon" method of engraving.
See the richer artist page
