Artwork
The Drunken Silenus
The Drunken Silenus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Schelte Adams Bolswert. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:across bottom of plate: P.P. Rubens delineau / Ebrietas mentis membrorumque impedit usum. / SILENI ut scité fabula prisca docet / Exhaurit nummos, Veneris, Martisque furores / Excitat, et mortem provocat ante diem. SA. Bolswert d.d.; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 98/150 / 980575
About this work
Overview
The Drunken Silenus is a print created around 1635 by Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert using etching and engraving on laid paper. It depicts a scene of revelry with three figures, showcasing Bolswert's skill in translating painted compositions into print form.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a bearded, potbellied man being supported by two smaller figures, one with horns, against a cloudy sky with flying birds. The central figure's inebriated state, suggested by the title, contributes to an atmosphere of abandon and festive mood.
Technique & Style
Bolswert, a leading reproductive engraver in Peter Paul Rubens' workshop, employed etching and engraving to recreate a composition, likely by Rubens, in print form. This technique allowed for the dissemination of Flemish Baroque imagery, characteristic of the period's dynamic and emotive style.
History & Provenance
As a reproductive engraver in Rubens' workshop, Bolswert worked closely with the master, producing prints after his compositions. The Drunken Silenus reflects this collaboration, exemplifying Bolswert's ability to translate Rubens' painted figures into print.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Schelte a Bolswert or Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert (c. 1586 – 1659) was a Frisian engraver who worked most of his career in Antwerp where he was one of the lead engravers in Rubens' workshop. He is known for his…
