The Death of Virginia

About this work

This print shows a dramatic scene inside a grand, ornate room with tall columns and arched doorways. In the center, a woman lies on a couch, her body covered by a sheet. Around her, a group of men in armor and robes stand in shock—some point at her, others look away. Above them, a curved border frames angels and swirling patterns, while the bottom edge has a shield and more decorative designs. The names "Appio Claudio," "Virginia," and "Virginius" are written near the figures, hinting at the story behind the scene. The artist used fine lines and shading to create depth, making the figures and architecture look almost three-dimensional. Next, look up cross-hatching to see how artists like Bockstorfer built shadows with layers of lines.