Arithmetic

About this work

This engraving shows a woman and a child sitting together. The woman is bare-shouldered, holding a scroll with her left hand while her right hand rests on the child’s shoulder. The child, dressed simply, points at the scroll with one finger. Behind them, a curtain and a window with a bird perch frame the scene. The scroll the woman holds has the word "arithmetica" written on it, hinting at a lesson in counting or math. The artist used fine lines and shading to create depth and texture, especially in the fabrics and hair. Try looking up engraving to see how artists like this one carved intricate details into metal plates.