Catafalque for the Funeral of Giulio Thieni, Marquis of Scandiano
1621
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1621
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a tall, ornate funeral structure. It has pointed spires on the sides, a central tower with figures standing on it, and a banner with Latin words. Below, there’s a draped platform with candles and a crown on top, framed by an arch with more carvings. The whole thing looks like a temporary monument for someone important. The tiny details—like the flames, the eagle, and the shields—were all carved into the metal plate. This is an example of engraving, a technique where artists etch designs into metal.
