Artwork
Strasbourg
Strasbourg is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1635 by the Czech-born printmaker Wenceslaus Hollar, this etching presents a tranquil riverside settlement. Rendered in monochrome, the composition balances a solitary tower, clustered dwellings, and a distant church spire against a calm waterway, conveying a serene urban landscape typical of Hollar’s mid‑17th‑century work.
Subject & Meaning
The image captures a modest town along a river, emphasizing the harmony between built structures and natural surroundings. The placement of the tower behind trees and the gentle flow of water suggest a peaceful daily life, while the inclusion of a church spire hints at the community’s spiritual focal point.
Technique & Style
Executed with fine etched lines, the print demonstrates Hollar’s meticulous approach to texture, from the bark of trees to the sloping roofs. The precision of the drawing aligns with the veduta tradition, prioritizing topographical fidelity and serving both artistic and cartographic interests common in 17th‑century prints.
History & Provenance
Hollar, who spent much of his career in England, produced the work during a period of extensive travel and documentation of European cities. Though the original plate’s ownership history is sparse, the etching has been catalogued among his extensive series of urban views, reflecting his reputation for detailed cityscapes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.
