Madrigal 4. There, had my Zeuxis place and time, to draw

Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

THERE, had my ZEUXIS place and time, to draw

My Mistress’ portrait; which, on platane table,

(With Nature, matching colours), as he saw

Her leaning on her elbow; though not able,

He ’gan with vermil, gold, white, and sable

To shadow forth; and with a skilful knuckle

Lively set out my fortunes’ fable.

On lips, a rose; on hand, a honeysuckle.

For Nature framed that arbour, in such orders

That roses did with woodbines buckle;

Whose shadow trembling on her lovely face,

He left unshadowed. There Art lost his grace!

And that white lily leaf, with fringèd borders

Of angels’ gold, veiled the skies

Of mine heaven’s hierarchy, which closed her eyes.