Air (Melancholicus), from "The Four Temperaments" 1596 - 1597

"Air (Melancholicus), from 'The Four Temperaments'" is an etching from 1596-1597 by Dutch artist Jacques de Gheyn II. The print depicts a melancholic figure seated upon a globe, holding a compass in his right hand while resting his chin on his left hand. The figure is partially draped and the background shows a night sky filled with stars. The artwork is a part of a series that explores the four classical temperaments, namely choleric, sanguine, melancholic, and phlegmatic, which were believed to affect one’s personality and behavior. "Air (Melancholicus)" is a striking example of de Gheyn’s skill in etching and exemplifies the artistic and scientific interests of the late Renaissance period.