Artwork

River Landscape with the Fall of Icarus

River Landscape with the Fall of Icarus, by Simon Novellanus, ink, 1595
River Landscape with the Fall of Icarus, by Simon Novellanus, ink, 1595

River Landscape with the Fall of Icarus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Simon Novellanus. It dates from 1595 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

River Landscape with the Fall of Icarus is a 16th-century print created by Simon Novellanus around 1595, combining etching and engraving techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print juxtaposes a serene river landscape with the mythological figure of Icarus falling from the sky, surrounded by birds, contrasting tranquility with a moment of dramatic descent.

Technique & Style

Characterized by intricate details, fine lines, and textures, the work employs shading and contrast to create depth and atmosphere, with the etching technique conveying a sense of movement amidst the calm setting.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1595 by Simon Novellanus, specific details about the print's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided in the available information.

Context

Reflecting the Renaissance interest in classical mythology, the work integrates the Icarus legend into a detailed, observational landscape, typical of the period's artistic fusion of myth and realism.

Legacy

While the print's direct influence is not elaborated here, it exemplifies the enduring appeal of combining mythological narratives with meticulous landscape depictions, a hallmark of late Renaissance printmaking.

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.