The Witch of Malleghem

published 1559

Pieter van der Heyden after Pieter Bruegel the Elder

Associated Names
Pieter van der Heyden

Artist, Netherlandish, active c. 1551/1572

Hieronymus Cock

Publisher, Netherlandish, 1518 - 1570

Pieter Bruegel the Elder

Artist After, Netherlandish, c. 1525/1530 - 1569

This is a drawing of a densely packed scene with various figures and objects. The scene depicts fantastical characters engaged in different activities around tables with jugs and cups. The environment is lively with intricate details in each figure's attire and expression. There are oversized fruit, baskets, ladders, buildings in the distance, and ships in the background. Objects include a devilish creature on a barrel and a figure crouched in a large egg, adding ambiguity and humor. This illustration is reminiscent of works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, with a whimsical and complex composition creating a narrative richness.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Accession Number

    1964.8.432

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bastelaer 1908, no. 193, State ii/v


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2000

  • The Fantastic in Renaissance Prints and Drawings, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2000.

Bibliography

1908

  • Bastelaer, Rene van. Les estampes de Peter Bruegel l'ancien. Brussels: G. van Oest et Cie, 1908.

Inscriptions

bottom center, in image, in plate: H COCK EXCVD. CVM PRIVILEGIO. 1559; lower center, on bench, in plate: PAME [artist's monogram]; lower right, on panel hanging from egg, in plate: P. brueghel / inuentor.; upper right, on banner, in plate: ... Jan kernakel; lower right, on jar, in plate: honich (honey)

Wikidata ID

Q65511682

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