Artwork
Group of Seven Horses in Woods
Group of Seven Horses in Woods is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hans Baldung Grien. It dates from 1534 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Group of Seven Horses in Woods is a 1534 woodcut by Hans Baldung Grien, showcasing his skill in printmaking within the German Renaissance and Mannerist styles.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts seven horses entangled in a dense, chaotic forest, conveying a sense of turmoil through twisted trees and knotted equine limbs, evoking a nightmarish atmosphere.
Technique & Style
Characterized by expressive figures and imaginative composition, the work features sharp lines and dramatic shadows, hallmarks of Baldung's distinctive style, honed under Albrecht Dürer's influence.
History & Provenance
As a student of Dürer, Baldung developed a prolific printmaking practice, producing diverse subjects; this woodcut exemplifies his technical proficiency and artistic range.
Context
Created during the German Renaissance, the piece reflects the era's emphasis on printmaking as a versatile artistic medium, suitable for both religious and allegorical themes.
Legacy
While specific lasting impacts of *Group of Seven Horses in Woods* are not detailed, it contributes to Baldung's reputation as a versatile Renaissance printmaker, influencing subsequent generations of artists.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Baldung (1484 or 1485 – September 1545), called Hans Baldung Grien, (being an early nickname, because of his predilection for the colour green), was a painter, printer, engraver, draftsman, and stained glass…
