Grotesque with a Satyr Feeding a Dragon (recto)

1576

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This drawing shows a wild mix of shapes—twisted vines, a half-human satyr, and a dragon tangled together. The lines are loose and sketchy, with lots of swirls and odd angles. Some figures look like they’re fighting or playing, while others just sprawl across the page. The satyr’s grin and the dragon’s scaly body stand out, but the real fun is in the messy, dreamlike background. It’s like nothing makes sense, but everything fits somehow. Next, check out Renaissance art to see more strange, playful drawings like this.