The Judgment of Solomon
1480
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1480
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows a crowded scene with a man standing on a raised platform, holding a baby. Around him, two women kneel, each with a child, while a group of older men watch closely. The background has tall, narrow windows and ornate carvings on the walls. Notice how the artist used deep shadows and fine lines to create depth and texture, especially in the clothing and faces. The scene looks like a story unfolding, with every figure focused on the man’s decision. Check out how this work uses engraving to build such detailed shading.