Artwork
New ABC Booklet: N
New ABC Booklet: N 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
This print shows a German town with a big gate in the center. Woodcut letters spell “N” across the top. The buildings look real but the street is empty.
Kilian carved this in 1627. It’s part of a set of ABC pictures for kids. Tiny details hide in the shadows—look for the lamplight on the stones.
Next, try Lucas Kilian’s print “O.”
Overview
New ABC Booklet: N is a 1627 print by Lucas Kilian, a German engraver and etcher from Augsburg.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a German town with a central gate, lettered 'N' across the top. The scene is likely an idealized representation, as the street is empty despite the presence of detailed buildings and subtle effects like lamplight on stones.
Technique & Style
Kilian's engraving showcases his technical skill, characteristic of the Augsburg tradition. The work is part of a series of alphabet illustrations, suggesting a functional purpose as an educational tool for children.
History & Provenance
The print is held in The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. It is one of a set of ABC pictures created by Kilian in 1627.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas Kilian (Lucas Kilianus Augustanus; 1579–1637) was a German engraver and etcher from the Kilian family of engravers in Augsburg.
