Melpomene

Hendrick Goltzius

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a seated woman from the torso up to her knees. She is seated slightly sideways, with her upper body facing the viewer. Her head is turned to the side, and she has a calm and direct gaze. The woman's facial features are detailed, with a composed expression. She has medium-length hair that is parted in the middle and tied with a ribbon. She is wearing a long-sleeved gown, and one can see a fold in the fabric. She holds a scroll in her right hand and a dagger in her left hand. Books are stacked on the ground beside her. The background features a textured surface.