Artwork
Aegros Curare
Aegros Curare is an ink print by the Baroque artist Sébastien Bourdon. It dates from 1668 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Aegros Curare is an engraving created by Sébastien Bourdon in 1668. It is a representative work of the artist's skill in printmaking, a medium in which he was active alongside painting.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a crowded and chaotic scene with multiple figures reacting to a central event. A winged figure is shown hovering above, while a man in a turban gestures towards it, and various others respond with different actions and emotions.
Technique & Style
The artist employed fine lines to achieve deep shadows and textured surfaces, lending the figures a dramatic and three-dimensional appearance. The composition is dense but structured, with a range of individual reactions to the scene's focal point.
History & Provenance
Sébastien Bourdon was a French artist active in the 17th century, known for his work in both painting and printmaking. His compositions, including engravings like Aegros Curare, reflect his engagement with contemporary artistic techniques and themes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sébastien Bourdon (French pronunciation: ; 2 February 1616 – 8 May 1671) was a French painter and engraver. His chef d'œuvre is The Crucifixion of St. Peter made for the cathedral of Notre Dame.
