1478
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Saint Ursula and Her Maidens is a 1478 ink by Israhel van Meckenem, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows a queen-like figure in a crown, holding a long staff. Around her are angels with wings and a group of women kneeling or standing below. The scene looks like a mix of royalty and religion, with lots of flowing robes and careful details in the fabric. The artist used lines to create shadows and depth, especially in the faces and folds of the clothing. This isn’t paint—it’s an engraving, meaning the lines were carved into a metal plate first. Try looking up engraving to see how this technique works.
Israhel van Meckenem (c. 1445 – 10 November 1503), also known as Israhel van Meckenem the Younger, was a German printmaker and goldsmith, perhaps of a Dutch family origin. He was the most prolific engraver of the…
See the richer artist pageYour cart is empty
Explore artworks →
