Artwork
Crouching Venus
Crouching Venus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1528 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Crouching Venus is a small, detailed engraving on laid paper created by Albrecht Altdorfer around 1528. As a prominent figure of the Danube School, Altdorfer was known for blending mythological and biblical themes with expressive landscapes, as well as producing intricately detailed engravings.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts Venus, the Roman goddess, in a crouching pose, naked and looking downward. The choice of subject reflects Altdorfer's engagement with classical mythology, a common theme in his work.
Technique & Style
Characterized by meticulous detail, the engraving showcases Altdorfer's skill in the medium, aligning with the precise traditions of the Nuremberg Little Masters. The level of intricacy is notable given the piece's small scale.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1528, the engraving's provenance is not detailed here, though it is attributed to Altdorfer's activity in Regensburg, a hub of his artistic output.
Context
Crouching Venus sits within the broader context of the Danube School, marked by the integration of figural subjects into landscape settings, though this work focuses closely on the figure.
Legacy
While specific influences of Crouching Venus are not outlined, Altdorfer's overall body of work, including such detailed engravings, contributed to the artistic heritage of the Danube School and beyond.
Artist & collection
Artist
Albrecht Altdorfer (c. 1480 – 12 February 1538) was a German painter, engraver and architect of the Renaissance working in Regensburg. Along with Lucas Cranach the Elder and Wolf Huber he is regarded to be the main…
