Artwork
Gardens of Prince Mattei, Rome
Gardens of Prince Mattei, Rome is an ink print by the Baroque artist Melchior Küsel. It dates from 1681 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
He printed it on copper plates, creating sharp lines and soft shadows.
You see a detailed print of Rome’s lush gardens near the Tiber River. Tall pines frame a clear path. Workers prune bushes and carry water in the distance.
This is an etching from 1681, made by Melchior Küsel. He printed it on copper plates, creating sharp lines and soft shadows. It shows a quiet moment in the prince’s private green space.
The dry lines make the light feel real. If you like this, look up Rembrandt’s etchings.
Overview
Gardens of Prince Mattei, Rome is an etching created by Melchior Küsel in 1681, depicting a serene scene in a Roman garden.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a tranquil moment in the private gardens of Prince Mattei, near the Tiber River, with workers tending to the lush vegetation and tall pines framing a clear path.
Technique & Style
Küsel used copper plates to achieve sharp lines and soft shadows, creating a sense of realism through the dry etching technique, which effectively captures the play of light.
Context
The work reflects the tradition of etching, also seen in the works of artists like Rembrandt, who were known for their skill in capturing light and atmosphere through this medium.
Artist & collection
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