Artwork
The Judgment of Paris
The Judgment of Paris is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Sebald Beham. It dates from 1546 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Judgment of Paris is a 1546 engraving by Sebald Beham, a German printmaker associated with the 'Little Masters' group. It is a black-and-white print depicting a scene from classical mythology.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving illustrates the mythological Judgment of Paris, in which Paris awards a golden apple to one of three goddesses. The scene is populated by three nude figures and a winged observer, referencing the story's key characters.
Technique & Style
Beham's work is characterized by precise, detailed rendering, achieved through the use of fine lines to create shading and texture. This technique is typical of engraving, a medium in which Beham specialized.
History & Provenance
Created in 1546, The Judgment of Paris is a product of Beham's time in Nuremberg or Frankfurt, cities where he worked during his career as a printmaker.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
