Artwork

Two Peasants

Two Peasants, by Italian 15th Century, ink, 1494
Two Peasants, by Italian 15th Century, ink, 1494

Two Peasants is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Italian 15th Century. It dates from 1494 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Two Peasants is an engraving on laid paper, depicting two rustic individuals in casual attire and wide-brimmed hats, one stationary with a hand on his hip and the other in motion with a billowing cloak.

Subject & Meaning

The subject focuses on everyday, possibly laboring, individuals, presented in a straightforward manner without overt narrative or emotional emphasis, suggesting a documentary or observational approach to portraying common life.

Technique & Style

The engraving features scratchy, dark lines, indicative of rapid execution. The textured, laid paper with visible impressions from the metal plate etching adds to the overall aesthetic. Cross-hatching techniques are employed to achieve depth and dimensionality.

History & Provenance

No specific historical or provenance details are provided for Two Peasants, highlighting the need for further research into its creation date, artist, and ownership history.

Context

Given its medium and style, the work likely falls within the tradition of European printmaking, potentially from the 16th to 18th centuries, a period when engraving was commonly used for both artistic and reproductive purposes.

Two Peasants
Two Peasants, Italian 15th Century

Artist & collection

Portrait of Italian 15th Century

Artist

Italian 15th Century

An anonymous Italian engraver from the 1490s carved images that could be peeled apart like paper dolls.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Two Peasants?

Two Peasants was painted by Italian 15th Century in 1494.

Where can I see Two Peasants?

Two Peasants is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Peasants?

Two Peasants is associated with Renaissance.