Large Pendant, In Circular Form, Nude Man Flanked by Two Herms
1596
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1596
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a fancy, swirling design centered around a small nude man. Around him, two winged faces—called herms—stand on either side, holding up a heavy, ornate frame. The frame is packed with fruit, flowers, birds, and strange shapes like teardrops and spirals. Everything is drawn in black lines on a light background, with lots of tiny cross-hatching for shading. The herms were often used in Renaissance art as protectors or symbols of strength. This piece looks like it might have been part of a larger set of decorative prints. Check out how the artist used engraving to create such detailed textures.
