Artwork
The Unicorn Purifies the Water with Its Horn
The Unicorn Purifies the Water with Its Horn is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jean Duvet. It dates from 1558 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Unicorn Purifies the Water with Its Horn is an engraving on laid paper created by French artist Jean Duvet around 1558. It is one of approximately 73 known works by Duvet, a goldsmith and engraver considered the first major French printmaker.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a unicorn purifying water with its horn, surrounded by various animals and a landscape with architectural elements. This scene draws on allegorical traditions, combining real and mythical creatures.
Technique & Style
The black-and-white engraving features a crowded composition and a naive quality, characteristic of Duvet's work. The level of detail achieved through engraving, a technique involving cutting a design into a metal plate, is evident in the image.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Duvet (1485 – after 1562) was a French Renaissance goldsmith and engraver, now best known for his engravings.
