Who painted A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins?

A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins was painted by Virgil Solis in 1560.

Where can I see A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins?

A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins?

A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins

Virgil Solis , 1560

A draftsman leaning against an obelisk sketching ruins is a print by the Renaissance artist Virgil Solis. It dates from 1560 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This print depicts a draftsman leaning against an obelisk, sketching ancient ruins, combining everyday activity with historical and decaying elements.

Subject & Meaning

The scene juxtaposes the draftsman's focused work with the looming ruins, evoking a sense of history and decay amidst daily life.

Technique & Style

The print features chiaroscuro, a technique utilizing strong contrasts between light and dark to create depth and emphasis.

History & Provenance

Based on Léonard Thiry's design, this is a reverse copy by Virgil Solis after Jacques Androuet Du Cerceau's 1550 prints, reflecting Solis's practice of borrowing from European engravers.

Context

Typical of its time, the print's antique theme was popular, and Solis's workshop produced such ornaments for various decorative applications.

Artist & collection

Artist

Virgil Solis

Virgil Solis or Virgilius Solis (1514 – 1 August 1562), a member of a prolific family of artists, was a German draughtsman and printmaker in engraving, etching and woodcut who worked in his native city of Nuremberg.