Februari c. 1560 - 1652

"Februari" is a 16th-century engraving by Dutch artist Julius Goltzius, depicting a winter scene with a rural village in the background. The central motif is a large tree with bare branches, creating a sense of starkness and desolation. Two figures in the foreground, one driving a cart, the other carrying a shovel, reinforce the image's focus on a cold and harsh winter. The work's title, "Februari," further reinforces the connection to the month of February, known for its cold and inclement weather. The print, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, demonstrates Goltzius's mastery in capturing the subtle nuances of nature and its seasonal transformations through detailed linework and masterful use of light and shadow. This engraving is a fascinating glimpse into the everyday life of 16th-century Dutch people and their relationship with the changing seasons.