Artwork

Gentleman in Large Mantle, Seen from Behind

Gentleman in Large Mantle, Seen from Behind, by Edouard Eckman, ink, 1621
Gentleman in Large Mantle, Seen from Behind, by Edouard Eckman, ink, 1621

Gentleman in Large Mantle, Seen from Behind is an ink print by the Baroque artist Edouard Eckman. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Gentleman in Large Mantle, Seen from Behind is a 1621 woodcut on laid paper by Edouard Eckman, depicting two robed figures from behind in a simple, sketchy style.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows two men in long, flowing robes with wide sleeves, adorned with large feathered hats and stockings secured by bows at the ankles, though the primary subject's designation as a 'Gentleman' suggests a focus on one figure's elegance.

Technique & Style

Characterized by simple, quick-drawing-like lines and a light, sketchy appearance, the work exemplifies the woodcut technique, popular in the 1600s for its efficiency in producing affordable prints.

History & Provenance

Created in 1621 by Edouard Eckman, the woodcut's provenance details are not specified here, highlighting only its creation date and medium.

Context

The piece reflects the common artistic practice of the 17th century, where woodcuts served as a prevalent method for mass-producing images, valued for their accessibility and speed of production.

Legacy

No specific information is provided on the work's impact or legacy, focusing instead on its descriptive and technical aspects within the context of 17th-century printmaking.

Artist & collection

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