Bacchanal by a Herm
1685
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1685
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a wild scene with people tangled in vines. One person stands tall, holding a long staff. Others are sprawled on the ground, some reaching up like they’re lost. The trees look twisted, almost like they’re alive and grabbing at the figures. The artist used lines to create a sense of movement and chaos. The paper has a textured look, like old paper from long ago. Check out more about the technique: etching next.