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March and April, by Sebald Beham, ink, 1546

March and April

Sebald Beham

1546

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

March and April is a 1546 ink by Sebald Beham, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Sebald Beham
When & what style?
1546 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows four people in old-fashioned clothes. Two men and two women stand in a line, each holding something—one man waves with one hand, another man leans on a staff, a woman holds a bundle of sticks, and the last woman clutches a small bag. Their clothes are simple but detailed, with hats and long sleeves. The ground looks rough, like dirt with a few patches of grass. The names "Her Gregorivs Mercz" and "Marcus April" are written above each pair, likely naming the figures. The artist used sharp lines and shading to create depth, making the clothes and faces stand out. This is an example of engraving, a technique where artists etch designs into metal plates.

About the artist

Portrait of Sebald Beham
Artist

Sebald Beham

Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.

See the richer artist page

More by Sebald Beham

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