Mercury Silencing Battus
1628
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1628
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This black-and-white print shows a forest scene with two men and two goats. One man stands near the goats, looking back, while the other holds a staff and walks away. Trees fill the background, and a fallen log lies on the ground. The sky is faint but visible above the treetops. The artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture, especially in the trees and animals. This style makes the scene feel detailed even though it’s just ink on paper. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this one make prints.
