Jar with Neptune

Jar with Neptune

Wenzel Jamnitzer I

1546

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This is a fancy metal jar drawn in black and white. It’s tall and shaped like a vase, but the top looks like a sea creature with a spout. A small figure stands on its back, holding something. The sides are packed with tiny swirls, leaves, and faces—like a busy, decorative wall. The jar’s handle curls up like a seashell. The whole thing looks heavy and detailed, like it’s made for show. This style was popular in the 1500s. Look up etching to see how artists like this made sharp, precise lines.

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