Artwork
Urania
Urania is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Hendrick Goltzius. It dates from 1588 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower center in brown ink: HG fecit.; by later hand, lower right in black chalk: 1592
About this work
Overview
Created in 1588 by Hendrick Goltzius, a prominent figure in Dutch art during the Northern Mannerism period, 'Urania' is a drawing that exemplifies the artist's technical skill.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts Urania, the Greek muse of astronomy, seated with one leg crossed, wearing a loose dress and having her hair pulled up in a bun. The representation is characterized by careful attention to form and detail.
Technique & Style
Goltzius employed a combination of media, including gray and brown chalk and pen with brown and black ink, to achieve a nuanced effect. The contrast between smooth shading for the dress and sharp pen lines for the face and hands creates a sense of depth.
Context
As a leading Dutch engraver of the early Baroque period, Goltzius's work was marked by intricate compositions and technical mastery, reflecting the artistic values of Northern Mannerism.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.
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