Venus Abducting Adonis

Herman van Swanevelt

Associated Names
Herman van Swanevelt

Artist, Dutch, c. 1600 - 1655

The image is an engraving of a woodland scene viewed from a slightly elevated perspective. The horizon is visible in the far distance where the trees meet the sky. In the foreground, there are figures and a small cart being drawn by a river or path to the left. To the right, several figures are reclining beneath large, leafy trees. The trees are depicted with cross-hatching for texture, and the engraving lines give the scene depth. The color palette is monochrome, created by the engraving technique. The sky above is textured with a few clouds. In the distance, hints of rocky outcrops or hills are visible.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Andrew W. Mellon Fund

  • Accession Number

    1977.38.3

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 19, State ii/iv


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1884

  • Dutuit, Eugène. Manuel de l'amateur d'estampes. Vol. I, IV-VI. Paris: A Levy, 1884-1885. Reprint. Amsterdam: G.W. Hissink, 1970-1972.

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

Q65569551

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