Who painted The Three Graces?

The Three Graces was painted by Jacob Matham in 1588.

Where can I see The Three Graces?

The Three Graces is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Three Graces?

The Three Graces is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Three Graces?

Museum-quality prints of The Three Graces are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Three Graces

Jacob Matham , 1588

The Three Graces is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jacob Matham. It dates from 1588 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:In plate, bottom: HG.(interlaced) Inuent./ Cur nudae Charites? et mundo orbata inuenta? / [hic qui]a fucus abest, est vbi verus Amor. / Munda carent mundo, nullo se tegmine velant, / Sese ornata sat est intemerata Charis.; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: B (p201/119.) 285 / J. Matham / The Three Graces / Cur nudae Charites...; lower left verso in graphite: C/t

About this work

Overview

The Three Graces is an engraving on beige laid paper created by Jacob Matham in 1588.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts three nude women, adorned with head wreaths, standing in a circular formation, holding hands. The central figure leans forward with outstretched arms, conveying a sense of movement or celebration, while their calm faces suggest a serene atmosphere.

Technique & Style

The engraving features sharp lines and cross-hatching, a technique using tiny parallel lines to create shading and texture, giving the scene a three-dimensional quality. The women's bodies are rendered with smooth, muscular forms.

Context

The work's use of classical imagery, such as the three nude women, suggests a connection to ancient Greek or Roman art and mythology, where the Three Graces were a common motif.