Ornament Panel: Griffins and Two Cupids Crossing Halberds
1510
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1510
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This image shows a tall, narrow design packed with swirling patterns. In the center, two small winged figures—like cherubs—stand on a pedestal holding crossed spears. Around them, griffins (half-eagle, half-lion creatures) and fancy vases fill the space, all carved into the surface with sharp lines. The whole scene looks like it’s part of a building’s decoration, almost like a frieze. The artist used fine, precise lines to create depth and texture, making it look three-dimensional. Next, look up engraving to see how this technique works.