Surface Decoration, Grotesque with Strapwork
Johannes van Doetechum the Elder
1556
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Johannes van Doetechum the Elder
1556
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print is packed with odd, twisting shapes. You see humans mixed with animals, vines, and strange masks. Some figures lounge on ledges, others climb or hold tools. The whole scene looks like a wall covered in carvings—wild and busy. The artist used lines to create deep shadows and textures. This wasn’t painted; it was etched into metal, then pressed onto paper. The mix of human and animal forms was a favorite in this style. Next, check out etching to see how artists make prints like this one.
