Artwork
Mulier Generosa Italica
Mulier Generosa Italica is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1644 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The title at the bottom, *Mulier Generosa Italica*, hints she might be an Italian woman of some standing.
This black-and-white etching shows a woman in a long, flowing dress with intricate patterns. She wears a wide-brimmed hat and holds a fan in one hand. The lines are sharp, and the details in her clothing are very precise.
The title at the bottom, *Mulier Generosa Italica*, hints she might be an Italian woman of some standing. The artist signed it in 1644, and the style looks like it belongs to the Baroque period.
Next, check out etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.
Overview
Mulier Generosa Italica is a 1644 etching by Wenceslaus Hollar, a Czech-born artist primarily active in England. This work diverges from his typical cityscapes and landscapes, instead showcasing a figure study of a woman in Italian attire.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a woman in elaborate Italian dress, a wide-brimmed hat, and holding a fan, suggesting a subject of some social prominence. The title reinforces her Italian origin and implied genteel status.
Technique & Style
Executed in etching, the piece features sharp lines and meticulous detail, particularly in the rendering of the woman's clothing. The overall style aligns with the Baroque period, marked by precision and ornateness.
History & Provenance
Created in 1644, the etching is signed by Hollar. While specific ownership histories are not detailed here, the work reflects Hollar's broader practice of capturing costume and figure studies during his time in England.
Context
Though Hollar is known for English landscapes, this etching highlights his interest in continental subjects and costumes. It reflects 17th-century European fascination with documenting and depicting varied national attire.
Legacy
Mulier Generosa Italica contributes to the broader legacy of 17th-century etching, demonstrating technical prowess and an eye for detail characteristic of the period. It also showcases Hollar's versatility beyond his more renowned landscapes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.
