The Abduction of Europa

1634

Willem Basse

Associated Names
Willem Basse

Artist, Dutch, 1613 or 1614 - 1672

This is a drawing of a coastal scene with a group of figures and a ship. It depicts a landscape with three individuals near a castle on hills. A ship with sails is being prepared on the water. The figures are dressed in historical attire, with two leading another who seems distressed. The fine line work captures the details of the scene and the figures' expressions and gestures, creating a narrative atmosphere near a coastal fortress.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    David K. E. Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 10.7 x 15.9 cm (4 3/16 x 6 1/4 in.)
    sheet: 11.5 x 17.9 cm (4 1/2 x 7 1/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.70.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 52

  • Volume Title

    Der Zee-Vaert Lof (Praise of Sea-Faring)

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Van Hattum Collection; purchased 1989 by NGA library (transferred to permanent collection in 1994).

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

by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 4.-

Wikidata ID

Q75125668

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