The Backplate of a Suit of Parade Armor
1557
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1557
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a fancy, swirling design meant to cover the back of armor. Tiny figures—some riding, some flying, some just floating—are mixed into the patterns like decorations. The lines are delicate but packed tight, with lots of curls and leaves filling every space. The artist used ink and a light gray wash to keep it simple but detailed. The paper has a textured look, like old paper with a grid pattern underneath. Next, check out the Renaissance to see how armor designs like this fit into the bigger art world.
