The Rape of Europa

1589

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 woman riding a bull through the sea. The woman is elegantly dressed, with flowing drapery, and is seated on the back of the bull as it strides through the waves. In the background, a group of figures and more cattle are gathered on the shore, observing the scene. Dramatic clouds fill the sky, adding movement and drama. The drawing features detailed lines and hatching to depict texture and depth in the waves and fabrics, conveying the dynamic and fantastical nature of the scene.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 18.5 x 26 cm (7 5/16 x 10 1/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2011.139.132

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein 1996, no. 571, State i/ii

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. 547

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-: no. 571, i/ii.

Inscriptions

in plate, across lower edge: Europam asportat freta per Neptunia Taurus / Juppiter, ad comites respicit illa suas / Illae merentes extrema in littoris ora. / Cum Coeli implorant Numina glauca maris. FEstius.

Wikidata ID

Q76559389

You may be interested in

Loading Results