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Melencolia (Melancholy)

Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a seated winged figure, likely an angel. The figure is seated with one elbow resting on a book on their knee and their head supported by their hand. The angel has closed eyes and a calm expression, with intricate curly hair. They wear a flowing robe cinched at the waist, and are surrounded by objects like a compass, an orb, an hourglass, and various geometrical tools. In the background, there is a textured surface resembling stonework or masonry, with a distant structure visible. The image has a monochrome tone highlighting detailed lines and textures.

Artwork Details

Date
1539
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
2608 × 3878 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette