One Large and Two Smaller Strapwork Pendants
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows three fancy metal hangers for chandeliers. The big one in the center has swirling leaves and curls, with two smaller egg-shaped orbs hanging below. On each side are two smaller versions with simpler scrolls and tiny circles. The lines are all precise, with some areas filled in with tiny parallel lines for shading. These designs were meant to be turned into real metal pieces for lighting. The artist used a method where they carved into a metal plate, then inked it to make prints. Next, check out engraving to see how this image was made.