Artwork

Susannah Crouching

Susannah Crouching, by Jacob Jordaens, watercolor, 1642
Susannah Crouching, by Jacob Jordaens, watercolor, 1642

Susannah Crouching is a watercolor drawing by the Baroque artist Jacob Jordaens. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Susannah Crouching is a drawing by Jacob Jordaens, created around 1642. It is executed in black and red chalk with watercolor, heightened with white.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two nude women in a dimly lit setting, one resting her head on her hand, the other leaning forward. The figures are rendered in soft chalk lines, with subtle shading that captures the curves and folds of their skin.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a range of techniques to achieve a gentle, realistic effect. Muted colors dominate the drawing, with touches of red and white adding warmth. The background is faintly suggested, with a hint of a curtain or fabric behind the figures.

Artist & collection

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