Perseus Freeing Andromeda
1583
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1583
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Perseus Freeing Andromeda is a 1583 ink by Hendrik Goltzius, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving depicts a dramatic scene from Greek mythology. In the foreground, a nude woman is chained to a rocky cliff, her arms raised in distress. A sea monster emerges from the turbulent waters below, its jaws open wide. To the right, a hero on horseback charges into battle, his sword raised high. The hero's horse is rearing up, its front legs kicking out at the monster. The engraving is richly detailed, with intricate textures and shading that bring the scene to life. The artist's use of cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and volume, drawing the viewer's eye into the action. Next, explore more works by the artist Goltzius, Hendrick.
