Large Pendant in the Form of a Wheel
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a fancy, symmetrical chandelier with lots of swirls and shapes. The center has a star-like pattern with small boxes and flowers, and the arms end in dangling orbs. Around it, there are smaller designs—scrolls, ribbons, and even tiny birds holding fruit. The whole thing looks like it’s made of metal, with sharp lines and shadows. The artist used a technique called cross-hatching to create depth with crisscrossed lines. This style was common in the Renaissance, when artists focused on detail and balance. Next, check out cross-hatching to see how it works.
