Artwork
XX: Twenty Years

XX: Twenty Years is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Crispijn van de Passe I. It dates from 1599 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
XX: Twenty Years is an engraving on laid paper created by Crispijn van de Passe I around 1599. It is currently held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts two figures in an intimate, cluttered interior scene, one seated with a book and the other standing, playing a lute. The surrounding Latin text suggests a theme related to the passage of time.
Technique & Style
Van de Passe employed fine lines to achieve a three-dimensional effect, capturing shadows and details with precision. The engraving technique involved carving intricate images into metal to produce the printed image.
Artist & collection
Artist
Crispijn van de Passe I (1564–1637) was an artist, born in Arnemuiden.














