Horned Genius

Jean Mignon

Associated Names
Jean Mignon

Artist, French, active 1543 - active c. 1545

The image features an interplay of curves and angles creating abstract shapes. In the center, a figure with a muscular torso wraps its legs into a spiral resembling a vine or serpent, leading into a vase of fruits and foliage. The head is adorned with curling horns forming a crown-like structure. Flanking the figure are cherubic forms playing musical instruments, while geometric patterns hang from an overhead framework, connecting to objects resembling weights or ornaments. The overall composition merges elements of mythology and nature, drawing parallels to figures such as fauns or deities of abundance.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 26.9 × 18 cm (10 9/16 × 7 1/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1964.8.857

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Zerner 1969, no. 13, State i/ii

  • Series Title

    Series of Twenty Terminals [Zerner 1969 9-28]

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1969

  • Zerner, Henri. Ecole de Fontainebleau, gravures.Paris: Arts et Metiers Graphiques, 1969. English ed. The School of Fontainebleau, etchings and engravings. London: Thames and Hudson, 1969.

Wikidata ID

Q65510077

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