Artwork

The Visitation

The Visitation, by Hendrik Goltzius, ink, 1593
The Visitation, by Hendrik Goltzius, ink, 1593

The Visitation is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hendrik Goltzius. It dates from 1593 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Visitation is an engraving on laid paper created by Hendrick Goltzius in 1558, exemplifying the artistic and technical prowess of the leading Dutch printmaker of the early Baroque/Northern Mannerism period.

Subject & Meaning

Depicting a scene from a Bible story, the engraving shows a somber meeting between two women, dressed in antiquated attire, conveying gravity through their expressions. The inclusion of meticulous details enhances the realism of the biblical narrative.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of Goltzius's inventive compositional approach, The Visitation showcases his mastery of engraving. The technique, consistently employed across his works, highlights his sophisticated artistic and technical skill.

History & Provenance

Created in 1558 by Hendrick Goltzius, a German-born Dutch artist, the engraving's provenance details are not specified in available information.

Context

The Visitation reflects the artistic tendencies of the early Baroque/Northern Mannerism period, with Goltzius at the forefront of Dutch engraving, influencing the development of printmaking in the region.

Legacy

As a work by the prominent Hendrick Goltzius, The Visitation contributes to the enduring legacy of Northern Mannerism in printmaking, though its specific impact or notable exhibitions are not detailed in the provided sources.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hendrik Goltzius

Artist

Hendrik Goltzius

Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.

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