Cimon drinkt aan de borst van zijn dochter Pero 1612 - 1665

Editor: This is “Cimon drinking from Pero’s breast”, an engraving from between 1612 and 1665, by Cornelis van Dalen I, currently residing in the Rijksmuseum. There’s a really striking contrast between the darkness of the background and the luminosity of the figures. What catches your eye in this piece? Curator: Indeed. Focus on the strategic deployment of line, particularly in modelling the forms. Notice how the density and direction of the engraved lines dictate the play of light and shadow across the composition. This textural richness lends depth and tactility to what is, after all, a two-dimensional surface. Are you noting the diagonal emphasis? Editor: I see what you mean about the lines giving the figures dimension, it does look almost sculptural. The diagonal emphasis? I think so, the bodies are angled, creating that dynamic tension. Is that intentional? Curator: Precisely. This angling generates visual tension, animating the scene beyond its narrative content. Van Dalen deftly employs compositional strategy to enhance the viewer's perceptual experience. We can perceive a powerful relationship by the arrangement of forms alone. The very medium – engraving – enhances our viewing. How does that linearity contribute? Editor: It seems like that distinctiveness allows such fine details. Without it, the message or clarity would be lost. It really heightens the dramatic emotion. Curator: Agreed, the very technique intensifies the composition. Now consider how that linearity contributes to the artwork’s formal qualities, elevating the artwork beyond a mere story. Editor: That's a great way to look at it, beyond the obvious story to see how line and form create such depth and emotional intensity. I'll definitely pay more attention to that moving forward.