Pandora Opening Her Box
1557
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1557
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a dramatic scene with two figures. One is a woman in flowing robes, kneeling and holding a box. Her face is hidden as she leans forward. The other is a muscular man with wings, reaching toward her from above. Around them, small cherubs and strange creatures float in the sky, some holding stars or musical instruments. Notice how the woman’s robe folds tightly around her body, showing the artist’s skill with lines. The box she holds looks heavy, like something important—maybe even dangerous. This is an etching, a printing method where artists carve into metal plates. Try looking up *etching* next.