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The Virgin and Joseph at the Inn

Adriaen Collaert

1585

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Renaissance Renaissance

Dominant colour

The Virgin and Joseph at the Inn is a 1585 ink by Adriaen Collaert, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Adriaen Collaert
When & what style?: 1585 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This image depicts a serene scene of the Virgin and Joseph at an inn, rendered in a detailed engraving on laid paper. The Virgin, dressed in a flowing robe, stands beside Joseph, who is attired in a simple tunic and cloak. They are situated in front of a rustic inn, with a tree and a well in the foreground. In the background, a bustling town square is visible, complete with buildings, people, and animals. The engraving showcases the artist's skillful use of cross-hatching to create depth and texture. The level of detail in this engraving is remarkable, with intricate lines and shading that bring the scene to life. If you're interested in learning more about the technique used to create this piece, you might want to explore the art of engraving.