Water and Earth/Autumn and Winter

Swiss 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image contains four figures labeled as "AQUA," "TERRA," "AVTVMNS," and "HYEMS," each occupying a section of the artwork. In the top left corner, the figure of AQUA is shown sitting sideways with her upper body exposed, her head turned slightly to the left with long hair adorned with leaves. She's wearing a draped garment around her waist and is holding a large overturned vessel from which water is flowing out. In the top right, TERRA is depicted sitting front-facing, her head slightly bowed with short, ornate hair and a headpiece of leaves. She wears a draped robe and is holding a vase with plants in one hand and a shovel resting against her foot. The bottom left features AVTVMNS, a semi-profile portrayal, facing right and sitting on a throne-like chair. This figure has curly hair ornamented with leaves and grapes, wearing a draping garment, and holds a plate with grapes. Lastly, in the bottom right corner, HYEMS has a profile view facing left, wearing a hooded cloak with fur trim. This figure is seated and stoking a fire in a brazier, with a small covered pot and a fluffy creature or item nearby. The surroundings feature decorative scrolls and motifs that frame each figure, and there is an empty central space bordered by intricate gothic designs. The background lacks added color or detailed scenery, keeping the focus on these allegorical representations.