Artwork
New ABC Booklet: W
New ABC Booklet: W 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: W is a 1627 engraving by Lucas Kilian, a German artist from Augsburg, featuring an ornate letter 'W' as its central element, accompanied by decorative motifs and figurative elements.
Subject & Meaning
The subject centers on the letter 'W', adorned with swirling lines and shapes. Two children at the base add a whimsical note: one holds a book, symbolizing learning, while the other grasps a bundle of sticks, potentially alluding to diligence or punishment.
Technique & Style
Executed in engraving, the piece showcases Kilian's mastery of intricate detail and craftsmanship, characteristic of Baroque aesthetics. The dense, expressive lines and ornate decoration reflect the stylistic influences of his time.
History & Provenance
Created in 1627, the engraving is associated with Kilian's work, possibly influenced by his experience in the Custos workshop. It is now part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Context
This work is part of the broader Baroque movement, known for its elaborate ornamentation and detailed craftsmanship. The combination of alphabet illustration with symbolic figures was common in educational and decorative prints of the era.
Legacy
As part of Kilian's oeuvre, New ABC Booklet: W contributes to the historical record of Baroque printmaking and the evolution of decorative lettering in early modern Europe.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas Kilian (Lucas Kilianus Augustanus; 1579–1637) was a German engraver and etcher from the Kilian family of engravers in Augsburg.
