Hertogin van Bourgondië neergestoken door haar man

About this artwork

Ontwerp voor een prent.

Art Historical Context

This pen drawing by Dutch artist Jan Luyken, created between 1697 and 1699, serves as a preparatory design for a print. Measuring just 171 by 135 millimeters, the compact work captures a dramatic moment from history: the Duchess of Burgundy being stabbed by her husband. Luyken, known for his detailed illustrations in books and prints, used precise linework to convey tension and emotion in this intimate scene. As a design rather than a finished engraving, the drawing reveals the artist’s process in planning compositions for wider distribution through printed media. Such works were common in the late seventeenth century, when illustrated histories and moral tales reached broad audiences across Europe. The small scale suggests it was intended for reproduction in a book or series of prints. Luyken’s careful pen strokes highlight both the violent action and the figures’ expressions, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of betrayal and power. Today, this piece offers a window into the collaborative world of book illustration during the Dutch Golden Age.

About the Artist

Jan Luyken · 1649–1712

Dutch, Amsterdam 1649–1712 Amsterdam