Who painted Woman and Child with Distaff?

Woman and Child with Distaff was painted by Jacopo de' Barbari in 1488.

Where can I see Woman and Child with Distaff?

Woman and Child with Distaff is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Woman and Child with Distaff?

Woman and Child with Distaff is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Woman and Child with Distaff

Jacopo de' Barbari , 1488

Woman and Child with Distaff is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jacopo de' Barbari. It dates from 1488 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Woman and Child with Distaff is a 1488 engraving by Jacopo de' Barbari, an Italian Renaissance artist known for his technically precise prints. Executed before his relocation to Germany in 1500, this work exemplifies his distinctive style.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays a serene domestic scene: a woman in traditional attire (long robe, covered hair, cloak) tenderly holds a distaff in one hand and a wrapped, resting child in the other, evoking themes of everyday life and maternal care prevalent during the period.

Technique & Style

Characterized by fine detail and cross-hatching, the engraving showcases de' Barbari's technical skill, achieving a sense of texture and depth. The composition conveys quiet intimacy through the subtle, calm expressions of the subjects.

History & Provenance

Created in 1488 while de' Barbari was still active in Venice, the engraving later became part of his influential body of work in Northern Europe after his 1500 relocation to Germany.

Context

Reflecting Renaissance artistic and cultural themes, the piece stands as an example of Italian Renaissance influence on Northern European art, facilitated by de' Barbari's pioneering presence.

Legacy

Woman and Child with Distaff, with its technical precision and intimate subject matter, contributed to de' Barbari's reputation as a leading engraver of his time, influencing the broader landscape of Renaissance printmaking.