Zeven ganzen 1547 - 1590

Editor: This is "Zeven Ganzen," or "Seven Geese," an engraving made sometime between 1547 and 1590 by Philips Galle. The rendering is so precise! What do you notice first about its composition? Curator: I am drawn to the interplay of light and shadow, particularly the way Galle uses hatching and cross-hatching to define the form of the geese. Consider the varying density of lines. Where do they suggest volume and depth? Editor: I see it in the way the light seems to hit the leftmost goose compared to the one bathing at the front. How did the position of the figures impact the final outcome of the piece? Curator: The placement directs the eye from left to right, moving through a variety of poses. Some geese stand, others bathe or rest. Have you considered how these compositional decisions emphasize the inherent rhythms and patterns? Editor: It almost looks like they are placed like musical notes on a page! And each goose has its own character and distinct place. The artist must have spent lots of time closely watching these creatures. Curator: Exactly. What do the shapes create, and how does Galle guide our viewing experience to make us observe it? Editor: That’s a useful framework. I will use this compositional approach with future pieces. Curator: Indeed. We’ve unpacked Galle's piece using a keen focus on shape, line, and tone. This exercise provides valuable insight.