Artwork

The Brazen Bull of Phalarus

The Brazen Bull of Phalarus, by Pierre II Woeiriot de Bouzey, ink, 1566
The Brazen Bull of Phalarus, by Pierre II Woeiriot de Bouzey, ink, 1566

The Brazen Bull of Phalarus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Pierre II Woeiriot de Bouzey. It dates from 1566 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Brazen Bull of Phalarus is an engraving created by Pierre II Woeiriot de Bouzey in 1566.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a chaotic scene centered around a large bull on a platform, surrounded by people in distress, some being dragged towards it, others fleeing. A crowd watches from the background, creating an atmosphere of tension and anxiety.

Technique & Style

The engraving features intricate lines and textures achieved through techniques such as cross-hatching, adding depth and complexity to the image.

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.