Pieta
1596
Hendrick Goltzius was a virtuoso of the burin, the sharp tool used to carve intricate lines into copper plates. In this intense 1596 engraving, he depicts the classic Pietà scene with Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus. Notice the dramatic, starburst-like rays behind Mary's head—it acts like a divine spotlight highlighting her grief, while the three crosses on the distant hill remind us of the crucifixion. This piece is a fantastic example of Mannerism, showing off Goltzius's incredible skill in making metal engravings look as soft and emotional as a drawing.
- Technique
- Engraving
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