Artwork

Title Page

Title Page, by Willem Basse, ink, 1634
Title Page, by Willem Basse, ink, 1634

Title Page 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

Title Page, an engraving by Willem Basse from 1634, presents a dynamic, mythological scene on laid paper, blending human figures, sea creatures, and symbolic elements.

Subject & Meaning

At the composition's core, a muscular figure astride a sea horse wields a trident, surrounded by cherubs, musicians, and artisans. A shipwreck and waves form the backdrop, with a Dutch inscription at the top, suggesting a potential association with a published work.

Technique & Style

Basse employed fine, intricate lines to achieve depth and a three-dimensional effect, characteristic of skilled engraving techniques of the time, where metal plates were meticulously carved to produce detailed images.

History & Provenance

Created in 1634 by Willem Basse, specific details regarding the engraving's original context, ownership history, or its connection to a broader published work are not provided in the available information.

Context

The piece reflects the Baroque period's penchant for complex, symbolic compositions, possibly illustrating a literary or mythological theme, though the exact reference remains unspecified.

Legacy

The engraving demonstrates Basse's technical proficiency and contributes to the understanding of 17th-century Dutch printmaking, though its broader impact or recognition within Basse's oeuvre is not detailed here.

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.