The Rape of Europa
1502
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1502
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows a woman being carried through the air by a bull. She’s holding onto its horns, her hair and clothes flowing as if caught in wind. Behind them, a rocky island with buildings and trees fades into the distance. The artist used fine lines and shading to show movement and texture, especially in the clouds and waves. The woman’s calm face contrasts with the wild energy of the bull. Next, look up cross-hatching to see how artists build depth with lines.
