Artwork

Adolescence

Adolescence, by Abraham Bosse, ink, 1636
Adolescence, by Abraham Bosse, ink, 1636

Adolescence is an ink print by the Baroque artist Abraham Bosse. It dates from 1636 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Adolescence is a 1636 print by French artist Abraham Bosse, created using etching and engraving techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man, woman, and boy in a garden, with a statue and fence in the background. The figures may symbolize aspects of human experience, such as youth, passion, and another quality embodied by the woman. The surrounding French text adds to the narrative.

Technique & Style

Bosse employed etching and engraving to produce Adolescence, showcasing his expertise in printmaking. The use of laid paper is characteristic of the medium.

Context

Adolescence reflects Bosse's focus on printmaking as a primary artistic medium, highlighting his contribution to the development of etching and engraving techniques in 17th-century France.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Abraham Bosse

Artist

Abraham Bosse

Abraham Bosse (c. 1604 – 14 February 1676) was a French artist, mainly as a printmaker in etching, but also in watercolour.

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