Geometria (Geometry)
1538
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1538
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
Geometria (Geometry) is a 1538 ink by Virgil Solis, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows a winged figure holding a compass and a scroll, standing in a cloudy sky. Below, a small town sits beside a river, with buildings and a bridge. The figure’s pose is dramatic, with one arm raised and the other holding the compass up like a tool. The word *Geometria* at the top hints this is about math and shapes. The clouds and scroll suggest ideas, not just tools—this is a symbol, not just a picture. Want to see how artists used this method? Try looking up engraving.