Artwork
Virgo Nuptialis Tiguriensis
Virgo Nuptialis Tiguriensis is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1649 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Created in 1649, this monochrome etching portrays a young woman dressed in traditional bridal attire.
About this work
The title at the top reads *"Ein Hochzeiterin zu Zurich"* (a bride from Zurich), and the bottom says *"Virgo nuptialis Tiguriensis.
This is a black-and-white drawing of a woman in old-fashioned wedding clothes. She wears a tall, pointed hat with a crown-like top, a ruffled collar, and a long skirt with a chain belt. Her hands rest gently in front of her, and the lines show the folds of her dress clearly.
The title at the top reads *"Ein Hochzeiterin zu Zurich"* (a bride from Zurich), and the bottom says *"Virgo nuptialis Tiguriensis."* The artist signed it in 1649.
If you like this style, look up etching next to see how artists made prints like this.
Overview
Created in 1649, this monochrome etching portrays a young woman dressed in traditional bridal attire. She stands with her hands placed delicately before her, her gown rendered with clear, precise lines that emphasize the fabric’s folds. A tall, conical headdress topped by a crown-like ornament crowns her head, while a ruffled collar and a chain‑belt complete the ensemble.
Subject & Meaning
The figure is identified as a bride from Zurich, as indicated by the German inscription at the top of the plate. The work serves as a visual document of 17th‑century matrimonial dress in the Swiss region, highlighting the ceremonial importance of attire and the social customs surrounding marriage during that period.
Technique & Style
Executed in etching, the artist employed a fine needle to incise the image onto a copper plate, allowing for delicate rendering of textures such as the lace collar and the sheen of the chain belt. The stark black‑and‑white palette and meticulous line work reflect the artist’s skill in creating depth and detail without the use of colour.
History & Provenance
The print is attributed to Wenceslaus Hollar, a Czech‑born engraver who spent most of his professional life in England. Known for his extensive series of cityscapes and topographical views, Hollar signed the plate with his name and the date, confirming its creation in the mid‑17th century. The work remains a testament to his proficiency in printmaking during his London period.
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.
