Phaeton Asking for the Chariot

1590

Workshop of Hendrick Goltzius, after Hendrick Goltzius

Associated Names
Hendrick Goltzius

Related Artist, Dutch, 1558 - 1617

Hendrick Goltzius

Artist After, Dutch, 1558 - 1617

This is an illustration of a scene inspired by mythology, featuring architectural elements and numerous figures. The composition depicts muscular, nude figures in a classical architectural setting with columns and a curved archway. A central figure in a robe and laurel wreath holds a staff and seems to be interacting with another figure seated on a raised platform covered in fabric. The seated figure is surrounded by smaller figures in various positions that suggest devotion, pleading, or assistance. The intricately detailed background shows clouds, typical of traditional engravings. The dynamic scene shows characters in expressive stances, and there are objects like rakes and harvested crops hinting at a theme related to labor or harvest. The style and shading techniques are precise and detailed, resembling the influence of Renaissance engraving practices.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg

  • Dimensions

    plate: 18.5 x 26 cm (7 5/16 x 10 1/4 in.), cut to platemark

  • Accession Number

    2011.139.160

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein 1996, no. 552, State ii/iii


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Dr. Edward Peart, London (1756 or 1758 - 1826) (Lugt 892).Leo Steinberg, New York (1920-2011); Estate of Leo Steinberg; gift to NGA, 2011

Associated Names

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 Hertzberger: no. 528

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-: no. 552, ii/iii.

Inscriptions

across lower edge of plate: Secta petit Phaeton Eois fulta columnis / Tecta, patris Solis regna beata sui / Indici imq rogat malesuadus stemmatis ardor / Nescuis heu fabricet quanta pericla sibi / F. Estius; in plate, lower right: HG excud

Wikidata ID

Q76559491

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