Artwork

Babylonis Muri (The Walls of Babylon)

Babylonis Muri (The Walls of Babylon), by Philip Galle, ink, 1572
Babylonis Muri (The Walls of Babylon), by Philip Galle, ink, 1572

Babylonis Muri (The Walls of Babylon) is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Philip Galle. It dates from 1572 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The engraving 'Babylonis Muri (The Walls of Babylon)' is a print on laid paper created by Philip Galle in 1572. It is a representation of the ancient city of Babylon's fortifications.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a densely populated city with numerous towers, temples, and winding streets, surrounded by a large circular wall with a gate through which people and animals are passing. Statues are positioned around the periphery, and ships are shown on a river.

Technique & Style

Galle employed engraving techniques to achieve a detailed and layered image, incorporating small figures and other elements to create a sense of depth.

History & Provenance

Philip Galle, a Dutch engraver and publisher active from 1558 to 1612, produced this work in the Netherlands during the late sixteenth century. Galle was known for both reproducing the works of earlier artists and creating his own designs.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Philip Galle

Artist

Philip Galle

Philip (or Philips) Galle (1537 – March 1612) was a Dutch publisher, best known for publishing old master prints, which he also produced as designer and engraver. He is especially known for his reproductive engravings of paintings.

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