Peasant Family Going to Market c. 15th century

Editor: This is "Peasant Family Going to Market," an anonymous work. It's a black and white print, and the composition feels so dynamic, with the figures moving across the landscape. What strikes you when you look at it? Curator: The formal elements demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of line and form. Note how the artist uses hatching to create depth and volume, particularly in the drapery and landscape elements. Editor: Hatching? You mean the little lines? Curator: Precisely. Observe how the density and direction of these lines vary to create a sense of light and shadow, thus articulating the forms within the picture plane. How does this linear construction influence your understanding? Editor: It does create a sense of movement, like they're really traveling! Thanks, I'll have to look for hatching more often. Curator: Indeed, and reflecting on this artwork, it is clear that close formal examination clarifies artistic intention, even without knowing authorship.