Artwork

Ornament with Foliage and Birds

Ornament with Foliage and Birds, by Bartolomeus van Lochom, ink, 1618
Ornament with Foliage and Birds, by Bartolomeus van Lochom, ink, 1618

Ornament with Foliage and Birds is an ink print by the Baroque artist Bartolomeus van Lochom. It dates from 1618 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Ornament with Foliage and Birds is a 1618 engraving by Bartolomeus van Lochom, characterized by intricate, swirling lines in black and white. The composition centers on two diminutive figures amidst a lush, dynamic environment.

Subject & Meaning

At the core of the engraving are two small figures, possibly musicians, given the instruments they hold. Surrounding them, a vibrant natural world unfolds with birds in flight and perched among foliage and flowers, conveying a sense of liveliness.

Technique & Style

Van Lochom employed sharp, detailed lines to achieve depth and texture, hallmark techniques of engraving. The dense background, filled with curls and dots, contrasts with the simpler, geometric facial renderings of the central figures.

History & Provenance

Created in 1618, specific details about the engraving's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided in the available information.

Context

Understanding the piece requires knowledge of engraving techniques, which allowed artists to produce detailed, reproducible prints using engraved metal plates, distinct from painting.

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.