Artwork

New ABC Booklet: H

New ABC Booklet:  H, by Lucas Kilian, 1627
New ABC Booklet:  H, by Lucas Kilian, 1627

New ABC Booklet: H is a print by the Baroque artist Lucas Kilian. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

New ABC Booklet: H is a 1627 engraving by Lucas Kilian, a German printmaker from Augsburg. The work features a cherub holding a shell, surrounded by ornate, swirling patterns and a prominent, decorated vase in the background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a cherub with a shell amidst floral or vine-like motifs and a majestic vase, conveys elegance and harmony, characteristic of Baroque aesthetics. The specific symbolism or narrative context is not immediately clear without further contextual information.

Technique & Style

Executed with meticulous detail, the print showcases Kilian's mastery of engraving, evident in the dense, intricate lines and textures that achieve a sense of depth and sophistication.

History & Provenance

Created in 1627, the print is associated with Kilian's work, possibly influenced by his experience in the Custos workshop. It is currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Context

While the broader contextual meaning of the piece is not fully elaborated here, its style aligns with the Baroque movement, suggesting an emphasis on dramatic detail and beauty.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas Kilian

Artist

Lucas Kilian

Lucas Kilian (Lucas Kilianus Augustanus; 1579–1637) was a German engraver and etcher from the Kilian family of engravers in Augsburg.

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