Artwork
The Lovers
The Lovers is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Israhel van Meckenem. It dates from 1490 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Lovers is an engraving created by Israhel van Meckenem, a German printmaker and goldsmith, around 1490.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a tender scene of two figures seated together on a bench, with one holding a swaddled infant, surrounded by domestic objects and a decorative branch.
Technique & Style
The print showcases van Meckenem's skill in engraving, a technique involving carving into metal to produce sharp, detailed lines, characteristic of Northern European Renaissance art.
History & Provenance
Van Meckenem was a prolific engraver, producing over 620 prints, many of which were adaptations of other works, and played a significant role in the early development of Northern European printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
Israhel van Meckenem (c. 1445 – 10 November 1503), also known as Israhel van Meckenem the Younger, was a German printmaker and goldsmith, perhaps of a Dutch family origin. He was the most prolific engraver of the…
