Pyrame et Thisbé

Lucas Van Leyden

1514

Pyrame et Thisbé by Lucas Van Leyden, 1514

Lucas van Leyden masterfully captures the tragic finale of Pyramus and Thisbe, the ancient 'star-crossed lovers' tale that inspired Romeo and Juliet. In this scene, Thisbe kneels in despair over Pyramus, who has mistakenly killed himself after finding her blood-stained veil—torn by the lion lurking in the background left. She clutches his sword, poised to join him in death. The intricate hatching and the ornate fountain marked '1514' showcase the incredible precision of Northern Renaissance printmaking, turning a heartbreaking myth into a visual masterpiece.

Technique
Engraving
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