Banknote motif with a girl's head derived from Leonardo da Vinci against a patterned band
Original title: Banknote motif with a girl's head derived from Leonardo da Vinci against a patterned band
kurzbeschreibung
Around 1824–37, Asher Brown Durand produced a banknote motif that places the head of a girl after a model by Leonardo da Vinci within an oval frame. The engraving with etching is flanked by a symmetrical geometric band. The sheet survives as a proof impression.
Description
An oval frame encloses the face of a young woman, reminiscent of studies by Leonardo da Vinci. Below, a symmetrical ornament of geometric shapes and diamonds spreads to either side. This pattern appears in darker tones and stands out clearly against the plain ground. The lines and hatching are crisp, revealing the combination of engraving and etching. Grey dominates the palette, with a slight brown cast.
Context
Durand was among the leading American engravers of the early nineteenth century and later turned to painting of the Hudson River School. For engravers of that time, banknote work was an important field, demanding the highest precision and artistic skill. That Durand takes up motifs by Leonardo da Vinci attests to the influence of European art on American printmakers. The sheet falls within a period when Durand worked for various banks and printing firms.
Impact
The delicate portrait and the strict geometric pattern enter into a calm, balanced dialogue. Fine lines and restrained colouring give the sheet an elegant, almost meditative presence. Symmetry and clear organisation make the motif appear orderly and trustworthy, as is typical for banknotes.
Technique
The execution combines engraving and etching, as can be seen in the precise lines and fine hatching. As a proof impression, the sheet documents Durand's high level of craftsmanship. The technique allows very detailed reproduction of both the portrait and the ornamental pattern.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)