
Read the visual description
The image is an intricately detailed print depicting a vast landscape viewed from an elevated perspective. The horizon is placed high in the image, allowing for an expansive view of the terrain below. To the far distance, the landscape rises into cliffs and outcroppings, with some small buildings and structures perched upon them. The point of view encompasses a large area, revealing a winding path that ascends towards a rocky formation. The print is created using fine, detailed line work typical of etching, with hatching and cross-hatching employed to render the textures of the rocky surfaces and the foliage. The color palette is monochromatic, relying on the contrast between black ink and the light tan color of the paper to portray depth and texture. Close to us, on the right, a group of travelers with packs interact with one another, while a cluster of trees adds a delicate balance to the scene. Beyond, a valley with a narrow river meanders through the landscape, drawing the eye toward the dramatic rock formations and distant buildings. In the sky, a few birds are seen flying amidst clouds.
National Gallery of Art · Print
Alpine Landscape
Johannes and Lucas van Doetechum after Pieter Bruegel the Elder
- Date
- c. 1555/1557
- Medium
- etching and engraving on laid paper
- Dimensions
- sheet (trimmed to plate): 32.5 × 42.9 cm (12 13/16 × 16 7/8 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 1964.8.411
- Credit line
- Rosenwald Collection
- Time span
- 1551 to 1600
- Department
- CG-E
Portfolio and series
- Series
- Large Landscapes (New Holl. 10-21)
Subjects and terms
- Netherlandish
- Landscape
- engraving
- Mountains
- fantasy
- landscape
Inscription
lower left, in plate, in image: brueghel Inuentor / .h. cock excude. / at lower right, in plate, in image: brue. inu
NGA object ID 47613. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.