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Roma Victrix [The Roma of Cardinal Cesi]

Nicolas Beatrizet

1549

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Renaissance Renaissance

Dominant colour

Roma Victrix [The Roma of Cardinal Cesi] is a 1549 ink by Nicolas Beatrizet, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Nicolas Beatrizet
When & what style?: 1549 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows three reclining figures in dramatic poses. The top figure lies on their back, arms bent behind their head. The middle figure stretches out on a sarcophagus-like box, one arm dangling. The bottom figure is curled up on their side, head resting on a hand. All three wear flowing robes, and the middle figure has a small dog at their feet. The lines are sharp and precise, made by etching into metal. This style was common for detailed prints in the 1500s. Next, look up the technique: engraving to see how artists like this created such clear images.