Still Life with Books c. 1618 - 1622
herculessegers
rijksmuseum
print, etching, paper
dutch-golden-age
etching
book
paper
"Still Life with Books" is an etching by Hercules Segers, a Dutch artist known for his unique and expressive style. The artwork, dated c. 1618-1622, depicts a simple yet compelling arrangement of three books, their worn pages and aged covers suggesting a sense of time and knowledge. The composition, with the books overlapping and tilted, creates a dynamic and almost precarious balance, inviting the viewer to ponder the weight of the knowledge contained within. The etching's use of deep shadows and bold lines contributes to its sense of drama and mystery, making it a captivating example of Segers' distinctive approach to still life. This artwork is currently housed at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
Comments
While Segers’ stack of books looks unassuming enough, it is entirely original, and may even be the earliest still life in European graphic art. While still lifes frequently feature in 17th-century paintings, they are rarely found in black-and-white (in prints).
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