Artwork
Bust of a Young Woman
Bust of a Young Woman is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Sebald Beham. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Bust of a Young Woman is a 1518 engraving by Sebald Beham, a German artist associated with the 'Little Masters' group, known for detailed small-scale prints.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving portrays a youthful female figure with subtle, downward gaze, adorned in a high-necked dress and headband, conveying understated elegance.
Technique & Style
Beham employed fine lines and cross-hatching to achieve nuanced shading and texture, aligning with the meticulous craftsmanship of the German Renaissance.
History & Provenance
Created in 1518 by Sebald Beham, who worked in Nuremberg and Frankfurt, the piece exemplifies his contribution to the German Renaissance printmaking tradition.
Context
This work reflects the Renaissance emphasis on refined representation, with its plain background focusing attention on the subject's detailed, delicate features.
Legacy
As a 'Little Master' piece, it contributes to the legacy of intricate, small-scale Renaissance prints, influencing subsequent generations of printmakers.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
