1582
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Design for a Pendant with a Sea-Monster Carrying Neptune Flanked by Two Nereids is a 1582 ink by Adriaen Collaert, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows a wild sea monster rising from the waves, its mouth open and horns curling. On its back sits a muscular man with a trident, holding a rope tied to a fancy crown above. Two small figures with fish tails and shells cling to the monster’s sides, holding sea plants. The whole scene is framed by swirling ribbons and ornate decorations. The crown at the top looks like a royal symbol, but it’s balanced on the monster’s back—maybe to show power coming from chaos. The artist used fine lines to build up dark and light areas, making the shapes pop. Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this one carved detailed images into metal.
Adriaen Collaert (1560–1618) was a Flemish artist, born in Antwerp.
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