Saturn

About this work

This engraving shows Saturn, the Roman god of time, eating his child. He grips a knife and holds the child upside down over a dark pit. The child’s head hangs down, limbs limp. Beham uses sharp lines to carve shadows and light. The rough texture of the engraving makes the scene feel violent and urgent. It’s small—about the size of your palm—yet packs a punch. Next, check out Beham, Sebald’s work at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.