Artwork

The Master-smith

The Master-smith, by Anders Zorn, 1907
The Master-smith, by Anders Zorn, 1907

The Master-smith is a print by Anders Zorn. It dates from 1907 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Master-smith is a 1907 print by Swedish artist Anders Zorn, currently in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man in dark, formal attire, posing with a tool, conveying an aura of seriousness, confidence, and authority through his expression and posture.

Technique & Style

The work features a dark, indistinct background with noticeable cross-hatching, indicative of etching or engraving techniques, emphasizing the subject's prominence.

History & Provenance

Created in 1907 by Anders Zorn, the print is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

While the subject's profession (implied by 'Master-smith') suggests a connection to craftsmanship, the print's focus lies more in capturing the individual's character than their occupation.

Legacy

As a representation of Zorn's work in printmaking, The Master-smith reflects his ability to evoke depth and character through minimalist, expressive techniques.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anders Zorn

Artist

Anders Zorn

Anders Leonard Zorn was born in February 1860 in Mora, Dalarna, the illegitimate son of a Bavarian brewer and a Swedish farmer's daughter; his mother died shortly after his birth, and his grandparents raised him.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.