Artwork

Embracing Couple

Embracing Couple, by Martin Treu, ink, 1540
Embracing Couple, by Martin Treu, ink, 1540

Embracing Couple is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Martin Treu. It dates from 1540 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:upper left: 9 / MT (in monogram); in later hand, on mount, upper right in graphite: 477; by later hand (Leo Steinberg?), on lower left of mount in graphite: Martin Treu B. IX. p. 68; by later hand (Leo Steinberg?) lower right of mount in graphite: Coll Lord nathan of Churt; by later hand, verso of mount in graphite: 2/585

About this work

Overview

Embracing Couple is an engraving on laid paper created by Martin Treu around 1540.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a couple embracing, with the woman wearing a headscarf and long dress, and the man dressed in a hat, tunic, and leggings, holding a sword. The plain background and simple composition focus attention on the figures.

Technique & Style

The engraving features cross-hatching, which creates texture and depth. The level of detail and realism in the work are characteristic of the Renaissance style.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Martin Treu

Artist

Martin Treu

Martin Treu (1535–1545) was an artist.

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Embracing Couple?

Embracing Couple was painted by Martin Treu in 1540.

Where can I see Embracing Couple?

Embracing Couple is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Embracing Couple?

Embracing Couple is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Embracing Couple?

Museum-quality prints of Embracing Couple are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.