Artwork
Mercury
Mercury is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hendrik Goltzius. It dates from 1592 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Hendrick Goltzius's engraving 'Mercury' is a print created around 1592, exemplifying the artist's technical skill and intricate style.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the Roman god Mercury, identifiable by his staff with entwined snakes, winged head, and leafy crown. The snakes on his staff reference medicine, a classical symbol.
Technique & Style
Goltzius employed fine lines to achieve deep shadows and textured surfaces, lending the figure a three-dimensional appearance characteristic of his refined draftsmanship.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.
![The Farnese Hercules, front view [plate 2], by François Perrier](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/francois-perrier--the-farnese-hercules-front-view-plate-2--cedb2cb031c3391b-w320.webp)
![The Farnese Hercules, three-quarter view turned to left [plate 3], by François Perrier](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/francois-perrier--the-farnese-hercules-three-quarter-view-turned-to-left-plate--b0564bebaad016fa-w320.webp)
