The Giants Climbing the Heavens

c. 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 a drawing of a mythological battle scene. The artwork showcases a chaotic battle among numerous figures in a turbulent landscape. A central gigantic figure wearing a crown and wielding weapons is engaged in combat with other figures around it. Various entities are depicted in dynamic poses, some flying and wielding weapons amidst clouds and mountains. The sun in the background adds to the dramatic effect of the scene. The drawing captures the intensity and grandeur of mythological conflicts through detailed lines and energetic compositions.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 18.5 x 26.2 cm (7 5/16 x 10 5/16 in.), cut to platemark

  • Accession Number

    2011.139.165

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein 1996, no. 538, 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. 514

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-: no. 538, i/ii.

Inscriptions

in plate, across lower edge: Stat Briareus celum affectans, dirusq Typhoeus / Insentesq ornos Rhetos in astra iacit... / Fregit Conatus Saturnius igne trisulco / Egiaq opposuit Pallas et arma fureus

Wikidata ID

Q76559502

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