Dimensions: height 291 mm, width 176 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This striking print of a woman in long robes before a stone wall was made by an anonymous artist. It's all about the push and pull of black and white, a real study in contrasts. The image has been built up through a process of bold, decisive marks that define the woman’s figure and the architectural structure around her. The starkness of the black ink against the white paper creates a powerful graphic effect, almost like a woodcut. You can see where the artist has carefully carved away areas to reveal the light, focusing our attention on the texture of the brickwork and the smooth, flowing lines of the woman’s garment. Notice how the black ink almost bleeds into the page? This reminds me of the work of Käthe Kollwitz, who also used printmaking to convey deep emotion and social commentary. Both artists share a commitment to simplicity and directness, using their mediums to create images that are both visually striking and deeply moving. It's a beautiful example of how art can speak volumes, even with a limited palette.
Be the first to comment and join the conversation on the ultimate creative platform.