Artwork
Dies I (First Day)
Dies I (First Day) is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jan Muller. It dates from 1589 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:recto: in plate, at top center: Dies I; in plate, at bottom center: HG excud.; on mount, at lower center in graphite in later hand: B. 36 / W. 36 II / D IV. 497,2; on mount, at lower center in red ink in later hand: 8793.
- Markings
- Marked:recto: Friedrich August, King of Saxony (Lugt 971); verso: none
About this work
Overview
Dies I (First Day) is a 1589 engraving on laid paper created by Dutch artist Jan Harmensz. Muller. The work features a central figure of a man in a robe, accompanied by a winged entity and a nude woman, set against a circular background.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a man in mid-stride with outstretched right arm and a rope leading to a winged figure above, while a nude woman emerges from darkness on the right, holding fabric. The balance of figures within the circular composition suggests harmony.
Technique & Style
Executed in engraving on laid paper, the piece reflects Muller's training in his family's Amsterdam printmaking business and subsequent influences from his time in Italy, characteristic of Renaissance printmaking techniques.
History & Provenance
Created in 1589 by Jan Harmensz. Muller, the engraving is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, D.C., having been produced before Muller's death in 1628.
Context
As the son of a book printer, engraver, and publisher, Muller's early training in Amsterdam and later residency in Italy influenced his work, blending familial tradition with Italian Renaissance elements.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Harmensz. Muller (1571–1628) was a Dutch engraver and painter. Muller was born in Amsterdam. His father was a book printer, engraver and publisher. He learned the engraving trade while working in the family…
