Turkish Town

1570

Melchior Lorch

Associated Names
Melchior Lorch

Artist, Danish, 1526/1527 - 1583 or after

The image is a detailed woodcut illustration presenting a cityscape from a slightly elevated perspective. The horizon is near the top of the image, with rugged cliffs or rocky hills extending across the width. The illustration features fine line work with cross-hatching providing texture and shading to the buildings and natural elements. Closest to us are architectural structures of varying heights, including a building with a pointed roof and a minaret capped with a crescent. The skyline in the distance shows densely packed edifices, including towers and gabled roofs. On the left, a tall tree stands next to the built environment. The overall visual impact is a harmonious blend of urbanity with natural elements in stark black and white tones.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    woodcut on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    block: 12.4 x 18.2 cm (4 7/8 x 7 3/16 in.)
    sheet: 14.8 x 20.6 cm (5 13/16 x 8 1/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2005.65.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 59

  • Series Title

    Wohlgerissene und geschnittene Figuren (known as "The Turkish Publication")

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Raffaele Alianello (1908-1988), Andria (Bari), Rome & Naples (Lugt 5k). Samuel Josefowitz, New York; (R. M. Light & Co., Inc., Santa Barbara); purchased 2004 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2007

  • Fabulous Journeys and Faraway Places: Travels on Paper, 1450 - 1700, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 2007

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge

Wikidata ID

Q76348713

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