The Scales of Marriage

About this work

This engraving shows a group of people gathered around a large scale. A man and a woman sit on either side of the scale, each holding a rope that suspends a plate. The man's plate is empty, while the woman's is filled with various objects. A cherub stands to the right, holding a hook that appears to be pulling on the scale. The scene is set in a courtyard or outdoor space, with a brick wall visible in the background. The figures are dressed in Renaissance-style clothing, adding to the sense of historical context. The level of detail and texture in the engraving is impressive, with intricate cross-hatching used to create depth and shading. If you're interested in learning more about this technique, you might want to explore the work of artists who specialized in engraving, such as Goltzius, Hendrick.