Artwork

Woman with a Harp

Woman with a Harp, by Georg Pencz, ink, 1544
Woman with a Harp, by Georg Pencz, ink, 1544

Woman with a Harp is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Georg Pencz. It dates from 1544 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Woman with a Harp is an engraving created by Georg Pencz in 1544. It is a black-and-white print that showcases the artist's skill in capturing detailed textures and shading through the use of lines.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a partially nude woman seated and playing a harp, set against a background of swirling patterns and draped fabric. Her pose and the musical theme reflect the artistic interests of the period.

Technique & Style

Pencz employed cross-hatching, a technique involving closely spaced parallel lines, to achieve a three-dimensional effect. The method is evident in the detailed rendering of the woman's hands and the harp.

History & Provenance

Georg Pencz was trained in Albrecht Dürer's workshop in Nuremberg and later influenced by Venetian art during his time in Italy. His experience in printmaking and collaboration with other artists, such as Marcantonio Raimondi, contributed to his style.

Woman with a Harp
Woman with a Harp, Georg Pencz

Artist & collection

Portrait of Georg Pencz

Artist

Georg Pencz

Georg Pencz (c. 1500 – 11 October 1550) was a German engraver, painter and printmaker. Pencz was probably born in Westheim near Bad Windsheim/Franconia. He travelled to Nuremberg in 1523 and joined Albrecht Dürer’s…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Woman with a Harp?

Woman with a Harp was painted by Georg Pencz in 1544.

Where can I see Woman with a Harp?

Woman with a Harp is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Woman with a Harp?

Woman with a Harp is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Woman with a Harp?

Museum-quality prints of Woman with a Harp are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.