Pool in a Formal Garden
1640
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1640
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows a quiet garden scene with a small pool in the center. On the left, a tall plant with spiky leaves grows near the water’s edge. To the right, a pedestal holds a broken statue, half-buried in the ground. Trees frame the scene, their branches heavy and detailed, while a few birds fly overhead. The broken statue adds a touch of mystery—it’s missing its top half, leaving only a smooth base. The artist used fine lines to show every leaf and ripple, making the scene look almost three-dimensional. Next, check out how this was made using the technique: etching.