Israhel van Meckenem the Younger
German, c. 1440/45-1503
The Singer and the Lute Player
INV-3805
Israhel van Meckenem the Younger
German, c. 1440/45-1503c. 1495
The Singer and the Lute Player
Israhel van Meckenem the Younger German, c. 1440/45-1503 →engravingprint
Date
c. 1495
Medium
Engraving in black on tan laid paper
Dimensions
15.5 × 10.7 cm (6 1/8 × 4 1/4 in.)
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Location
Chicago, IL
Credit
Bequest of Mrs. Potter Palmer, Jr.
This engraving by Israhel van Meckenem is from a series of 12 prints that depicts amorous couples in elaborately furnished interiors. Its suggestive scene depicts a young couple eagerly anticipating a liaison—musical or otherwise. In his lap, the man holds a lute, an instrument frequently likened to the female body, and he stares intently at his companion, who pauses in reading her musical scroll to return his gaze. The small dog in chains near his feet is meant to symbolize the captivating power of music and beautiful women.
Also notable
Works in the same vein
