Artwork

Masquerade

Masquerade, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514
Masquerade, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514

Masquerade is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist German 16th Century. It dates from 1514 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Masquerade is a drawing executed with pen and brown ink complemented by watercolor washes on laid paper. The work combines line work with subtle color, presenting a composition that suggests the theme of disguise or performance inherent in its title.

Technique & Style

The artist employed fine pen lines to define forms, while brown ink adds depth and contrast. Watercolor applied over the ink introduces muted tonal variations, and the laid paper surface contributes a textured backdrop that interacts with the medium’s translucency.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 16th Century

Artist

German 16th Century

A German artist from the late 1500s drew lively scenes of knights clashing in parades and mock battles.

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