Ornament

Ornament

Theodor de Bry

1563

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This engraving shows a woman holding a child, framed by a heavy border of swirling patterns. Two cherubs peek from the sides, and the whole scene is packed with tiny scrolls, leaves, and strange shapes. The woman’s banner reads *CHR RELI IST GIO*, and light rays burst behind her like a glow. The dense, tangled border isn’t just decoration—it’s part of the design, filling every inch with intricate lines. This kind of packed detail was common in Renaissance prints. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this carved images into metal.

More by Theodor de Bry

Artifact World Gallery — 100,000 artworks Get the app