Artwork

Palace, Florence

Palace, Florence, by Melchior Küsel, ink, 1681
Palace, Florence, by Melchior Küsel, ink, 1681

Palace, Florence is an ink print by the Baroque artist Melchior Küsel. It dates from 1681 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Melchior Küsel's 1681 etching, Palace, Florence, depicts a vibrant scene of 17th-century Florentine life centered around a grand architectural structure.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates a performance or event, 'Lustgäng des Princ. Mattej', with figures on a decorated stage, onlookers below, and spectators on a balcony, suggesting a ceremonial or entertainment gathering in Florence.

Technique & Style

Characterized by clear lines and defined shadows, the etching exemplifies the detailed, orderly aesthetic typical of Küsel's style, leveraging the etching medium's capabilities for intricate representation.

History & Provenance

Created in 1681 by Melchior Küsel, specific provenance details are not provided, but the work is dated and attributed to the artist.

Context

The piece reflects 17th-century Florentine cultural and architectural nuances, with the depicted building featuring columns, statues, and a balcony, aligning with Baroque architectural elements of the time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Melchior Küsel

Artist

Melchior Küsel

Melchior Küsel (1626–1684) was an artist, born in Augsburg.

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