Artwork

Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter

Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter, by Swiss 16th Century, ink, 1501
Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter, by Swiss 16th Century, ink, 1501

Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Swiss 16th Century. It dates from 1501 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter is a drawing created with pen and black ink and gray wash. It is divided into four scenes, each featuring a robed figure accompanied by a symbolic element.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts four allegorical figures, representing the elements Water and Earth, and the seasons Autumn and Winter. Each figure is associated with a distinct symbol, such as a vase pouring water or a lamb.

Technique & Style

The artist employed simple lines and shading to render the figures, which are reminiscent of classical representations of gods or seasons. Gray wash was used to create depth and dimension, while cross-hatching with ink lines produced shaded areas.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Swiss 16th Century

Artist

Swiss 16th Century

This artist drew men in armor, portraits with broad-brimmed hats, and seasonal landscapes like Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.