Title Page
1585
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1585
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Title Page is a 1585 ink by Adriaen Collaert, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This image is a detailed border of tiny scenes and figures around a central text block. The top shows a clock with wings, surrounded by musical instruments and people playing them. Below, there’s a cross with grapes and a bird perched on it, while the sides frame more figures—some holding tools, others reading or holding objects. The whole thing looks like it’s carved into the paper with fine lines. The text at the top is in Latin and looks like a title for a book of religious symbols. The artist used lots of small, precise lines to create shadows and depth, making everything look three-dimensional. Try looking up engraving to see how artists like this one made such sharp, layered images.
