1544
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
Ornament with a Couple of Tritons Blowing Horns is a 1544 ink by Sebald Beham, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This image shows two muscular, winged figures floating in a swirl of leaves and scrolls. They’re holding curved horns to their lips, like they’re about to blow. The background is packed with intricate patterns—swirls, flowers, and vines—that frame them like a decorative border. The figures look like mythical sea creatures, often called tritons, but the artist didn’t label them. The whole scene is carved into metal, not painted, which gives it a sharp, detailed look. Next, check out how this was made with engraving.
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
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