Brunehaut 1620 - 1664

Editor: We are looking at "Brunehaut," an engraving on paper made between 1620 and 1664 by Stefano della Bella, currently held in the Rijksmuseum. It's quite small and the figure seems somewhat fragile. What strikes you first about this piece? Curator: The elegance of the line. Observe the delicate hatching and cross-hatching technique. The artist is creating volume and texture with incredible economy of means. Do you notice how the engraver directs our eye using only these lines? Editor: Yes, the folds in the fabric of her gown are clearly delineated. And how the gown occupies the visual space within the frame. How would you describe its overall effect? Curator: Note the contrast between the relatively simple rendering of the figure and the elaborate detail given to her clothing. The gown dominates. It functions, structurally, as a frame in itself, drawing the eye back to the woman. Editor: It seems very meticulous, like a study in light and shadow through line work alone. But is that all there is? Curator: The artist is concerned primarily with representation. Notice how all the elements - line, form, composition – contribute to constructing the image of the person. Consider the formal elements foremost to grasp the artistry on display. The dress, even without the cultural information creates this status for Brunehaut. Editor: So, focusing on the artistic choices reveals her stature. Thanks for pointing out the formal techniques that are at play in this artwork! Curator: Indeed, seeing how technique, material, and style creates the effect that an artwork has upon the viewer reveals how they combine into a single expressive image.