Artwork
Philemon and Baucis
Philemon and Baucis is an ink print by Timothy Cole. It dates from 1927 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Philemon and Baucis is a wood engraving by Timothy Cole, dated to 1927. The print depicts a serene, intimate scene with three figures in a humble, dimly lit interior.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving illustrates a moment from Ovid's Metamorphoses, where the elderly couple Philemon and Baucis, accompanied by their dog, embody hospitality and devotion, contrasting with the somber atmosphere, underscored by the dog's comforting presence.
Technique & Style
Cole employed meticulous tiny lines and nuanced shading to achieve depth and texture, evoking a sense of quiet antiquity. The technique emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow, characteristic of wood engraving.
History & Provenance
Created in 1927 by Timothy Cole, the engraving's provenance is not detailed here, though its creation date situates it within Cole's later body of work.
Context
The piece reflects Cole's interest in literary themes, particularly classical mythology, and the early 20th-century revival of interest in traditional printmaking techniques.
Legacy
Philemon and Baucis contributes to the 20th-century wood engraving revival, showcasing Cole's skill in the medium and his interpretation of timeless mythological narratives.
Artist & collection
