The Original Sin
n.d.
Medium
Engraving on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
Image/sheet, cut within platemark: 5.3 × 7.5 cm (2 1/8 × 3 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
133210
Art Historical Context
Étienne Delaune's *The Original Sin*, an engraving from the 16th century, captures biblical moment of Adam and Eve's fall from grace in the Garden of Eden. As a leading French Mannerist artist and goldsmith, Delaune (9–1592) was renowned for his intricate designs that blended Renaissance elegance with elongated forms and decorative flourish, often serving as models for jewelers and metalworkers. This undated work exemplifies his mastery in miniature scale, measuring just 5.3 × 7.5 cm, making it a portable treasure likely cherished by collectors of the era. Printed on luxurious ivory laid pape...