The Fall of Man

The Fall of Man

Etienne Delaune

1551

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From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white engraving shows two human figures in a garden. One is reaching for fruit on a tree, while the other stands nearby holding a staff. Snakes slither around their feet, and skulls lie on the ground. Above them, a building and a crescent moon float in the sky, surrounded by swirling vines and flowers. The scene looks like a warning—maybe about disobedience or consequences. The artist used fine lines and shading to create depth, making the figures and details stand out. Next, check out the technique: engraving to see how artists like this made prints.

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