Man Singing and Playing a Lute 1630 - 1676

Abraham Bosse's etching "Man Singing and Playing a Lute" (1630-1676), housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a man in elaborate 17th-century attire seated, playing a lute and singing. The composition emphasizes the musician's expressive gestures and the intricate detail of the lute. The print utilizes an inscription that is likely a musical verse and emphasizes the musical nature of the subject. The print is a testament to Bosse's mastery of etching and his interest in depicting the elegant life of 17th-century society.