Mutius Scaevola
1537
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1537
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This black-and-white print shows a dramatic scene with two men in armor. One man is holding a sword while the other reaches toward him, both looking intense. The background is packed with swirling patterns, a crown, and a globe, making the scene feel busy and full of meaning. The artist used tiny lines to create shadows and texture, giving the image depth. The date "1537" is carved into the top, showing when this was made. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this one used metal plates to make prints.