Artwork preview

Nun

Wenceslaus Hollar after Hans Holbein the Younger after Abraham van Diepenbeeck

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a scene framed by ornate architectural elements. The central scene depicts three figures in a chapel-like interior, with one figure in the rear appearing skeletal and holding an hourglass. The other two figures are kneeling and praying towards a crucifix at the altar. The setting features large arch windows with classical detailing. Surrounding the central tableau is an elaborate frame with columns on either side, each adorned with urn-like decorations. Above and below the central scene are cherub-like figures, with skeletal motifs prominently featured, including skulls and bones.

Artwork Details

Date
1651
Medium
etching with border "Democritus and Heraclitus" (Pennington 233A)
Dimensions
3407 × 4172 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette