Strapwork Pendant with Two Swans as Earrings at Left and Right
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 metal chandelier with swirling patterns and small shapes hanging from it. At the bottom left and right, there are two swans perched on tiny stands. The chandelier has loops, circles, and detailed scrollwork, with small candle holders shaped like fruits or teardrops. The swans look like earrings, which is why the title calls them that. This style of twisted metalwork was popular in the Renaissance. If you like this kind of design, look up engraving to see how artists create these precise lines.
