Renaissance and modern masters demonstrate the magic of metalpoint in new exhibition at the British Museum featuring over 100 spectacular drawings on display. From Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt to Edward Burne-Jones, Jasper Johns and Bruce Nauman, this is a masterclass in some of the finest metalpoint drawings around.
What is metalpoint?
The delicate art of metalpoint is a drawing technique which uses a silver stylus (pen) to leave traces of metal across the surface of paper with stunning and precise results. As the metalpoint lines can't be removed, the process requires hefty planning and confident draughtsmanship to create accomplished sketches. When the cheaper and easier to use graphite material arrived in 1550, metalpoint fell out of fashion and only really appeared again in the 19th century.
British Museum exhibition 2015
This is the first time an exhibition has examined the metalpoint technique through the ages, from the Renaissance to the present day. You'll also be delighted by the array of major works from European and American museums on display, including four drawings by da Vinci from the Queen's Royal Collection.
This dazzling display of metalpoint drawings by world-famous artists is a rare opportunity to catch some of the finest masterpieces in the British Museum collection.
What is metalpoint?
The delicate art of metalpoint is a drawing technique which uses a silver stylus (pen) to leave traces of metal across the surface of paper with stunning and precise results. As the metalpoint lines can't be removed, the process requires hefty planning and confident draughtsmanship to create accomplished sketches. When the cheaper and easier to use graphite material arrived in 1550, metalpoint fell out of fashion and only really appeared again in the 19th century.
British Museum exhibition 2015
This is the first time an exhibition has examined the metalpoint technique through the ages, from the Renaissance to the present day. You'll also be delighted by the array of major works from European and American museums on display, including four drawings by da Vinci from the Queen's Royal Collection.
This dazzling display of metalpoint drawings by world-famous artists is a rare opportunity to catch some of the finest masterpieces in the British Museum collection.
| What | Drawing in silver and gold: Leonardo to Jasper Johns, British Museum |
| Where | British Museum, Great Russell St, London, WC1B 3DG | MAP |
| Nearest tube | Tottenham Court Road (underground) |
| When |
10 Sep 15 – 06 Dec 15, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Price | £8 adults, under 16s free |
| Website | Click here to book British Museum tickets |
