Faun Fighting a Snake c. 1500 - 1550
andreamantegna
pencil drawn
facial expression drawing
light pencil work
pencil sketch
charcoal drawing
pencil drawing
pen-ink sketch
limited contrast and shading
portrait drawing
pencil work
Andrea Mantegna's "Faun Fighting a Snake" is a powerful engraving from the late 15th century. The muscular faun, with a fierce expression, grapples with a large snake, his powerful form and dramatic pose emphasizing the struggle. Mantegna's mastery of perspective and anatomical detail is evident in the work, creating a sense of realism and immediacy. The engraving's chiaroscuro technique, with its stark contrasts of light and shadow, enhances the dramatic tension and dynamism of the scene.
Comments
Although the inscription indicates ‘Hercules’, the pointed ears of the figure reveal him to be a faun (forest god). The engraving is based on a drawing by Andrea Mantegna in the British Museum collection, in London. Besides following the master’s design, the anonymous engraver also emulated his robust style of drawing with thick, closely placed parallel lines.
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