Bacchanal with a Dancing Couple in the Center

Willem Basse

Associated Names
Willem Basse

Artist, Dutch, 1613 or 1614 - 1672

The image shows a scene with a group of figures under a canopy of trees. The perspective is slightly elevated and frontal, with no distinct horizon line due to the dense foliage. The artwork features intricate, fine lines and cross-hatching for detailed textures. The color palette is monochromatic with shades of brown. There are figures reclining and seated on the left and more figures under a tree on the right. In the center, two figures are engaged in a dance, with one holding a tambourine. The background is filled with trees and branches, creating a textured natural setting.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching with engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 7.4 x 13 cm (2 15/16 x 5 1/8 in.)
    sheet: 7.5 x 13.1 cm (2 15/16 x 5 3/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2004.97.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 23

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Christopher Lennox-Boyd, Oxfordshire (not in Lugt); (James A. Bergquist, Newton Center, MA); purchased 2004 by NGA.

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 Hertzberge

Inscriptions

lower left in plate: W. basse f.

Wikidata ID

Q76359847

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