Artwork

The Followers of Solon Defending the Temple of Venus

The Followers of Solon Defending the Temple of Venus, by Willem Basse, ink, 1634
The Followers of Solon Defending the Temple of Venus, by Willem Basse, ink, 1634

The Followers of Solon Defending the Temple of Venus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Willem Basse. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Followers of Solon Defending the Temple of Venus is a print by Willem Basse, created in 1634 using etching and engraving techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic battle scene near a rocky shoreline, with soldiers clashing and people fleeing towards a temple, while a ship remains anchored in the background.

Technique & Style

Basse employed quick, scratchy lines to convey a sense of movement and tension, resulting in an urgent and disordered atmosphere.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Willem Basse

Artist

Willem Basse

Willem Basse (1634–1634) was an artist.

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