Fortitude

Fortitude

Hieronymus Hopfer

1525

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows a strong-looking person holding a pillar with one hand while flames flicker at its base. The figure’s other hand rests on a chain, and their hair and cloak swirl around them like wind. The background has rough rocks and a cloudy sky, giving a sense of struggle. The artist used lines to show muscle and movement, making the figure look powerful. This kind of image often stands for a bigger idea—like courage—rather than showing a real person or place. Next, look up etching to see how this technique works.

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