Artwork

Aeneas Saving His Father from Troy

Aeneas Saving His Father from Troy, by Ludwig Büsinck, ink
Aeneas Saving His Father from Troy, by Ludwig Büsinck, ink

Aeneas Saving His Father from Troy is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Ludwig Büsinck. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Aeneas Saving His Father from Troy is a chiaroscuro woodcut print created by Ludwig Büsinck in 1630, featuring a dramatic scene from ancient mythology.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic moment of people fleeing a burning city, with a central figure carrying another person on his back, likely referencing the legend of Aeneas rescuing his father Anchises from Troy.

Technique & Style

The woodcut, printed from two blocks in tan and black, employs chiaroscuro to create a sense of urgency through deep shadows and bold lines, with the color palette evoking smoke and danger.

Artist & collection

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