Neptune and the Pillars of Hercules

1634

Willem Basse

Associated Names
Willem Basse

Artist, Dutch, 1613 or 1614 - 1672

This is a drawing of a scene featuring a trident-bearing figure riding a sea creature. The central figure holds a trident and sits atop a large sea creature surrounded by waves. In the background, there are ships sailing and two pillars rise from the water, each wrapped in banners. The sky is lightly sketched with clouds. The drawing has a classical style with fine lines and detailed cross-hatching providing texture.

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

    etching and engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    David K. E. Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 11.5 x 16.4 cm (4 1/2 x 6 7/16 in.)
    sheet: 12 x 17.9 cm (4 3/4 x 7 1/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.70.13

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 61

  • 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, center verso in graphite: W. Basse fec; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 13.-

Wikidata ID

Q75125725

You may be interested in

Loading Results