De roof van Europa c. 1592

pen drawing

shading to add clarity

pen illustration

pen sketch

pencil sketch

old engraving style

pen-ink sketch

limited contrast and shading

pen work

pencil art

Zacharias Dolendo's *De roof van Europa* (c. 1592) is a circular engraving depicting the abduction of Europa by Zeus. The image shows Europa riding a bull, while Zeus, disguised as a bull, carries her to Crete. This scene was a popular subject in Renaissance art, and Dolendo's print is a fine example of the genre. The dynamic composition, detailed figures, and use of light and shadow give the image a sense of drama and excitement. The surrounding landscape, with its mountain range and river, adds depth and scale to the scene. The engraving is currently in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.