Border Illustration with God the Father, Two Saints, and a Serpent

1613/1646

Netherlandish 17th Century

Associated Names
This is a drawing of a decorative border surrounding a blank rectangular space. The drawing features an ornate frame design with mythical and celestial figures on each side of the rectangle. At the top of the composition, there is a figure emerging from clouds with outstretched arms, positioned centrally. Flanking the rectangle are two figures; one is on the left standing on a crescent moon, accompanied by floral elements, and the other on the right appears to be standing atop clouds, surrounded by a radiant aura. At the bottom of the design, the initials "MRA" are featured prominently, with swirling serpentine shapes and more floral elements. Overall, this drawing has a classical and baroque style, rich with allegorical symbols.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper [proof before letters]

  • Credit Line

    William B. O'Neal Fund

  • Accession Number

    1996.78.36

Associated Artworks

See all 77 artworks
This is a drawing of an ornate title page for a religious text. The drawing includes detailed decorative elements surrounding the title "Biblia Sacra cum Glossa Ordinaria." At the top of the image, a figure representing Theologia stands on a pedestal between two columns decorated with shields and cherubic figures. The left shield displays a pentagram with Latin text, while the right shield features the "IHS" Christogram. Flanking the central figure are two sculpturesque figures in classical attire. Below the central pediment, the primary text is inscribed in a rectangular frame and adorned with iconography including angelic and demonic motifs, all within a richly ornamented stone-like border. The artwork showcases intricate Baroque design elements emphasizing theological and classical sculpture stylings.

Title Page for Biblia Sacra Cvm Glossa Ordinaria

Hans Collaert the Younger, Balthazar Bellerus, Jan van Keerbergen

1617

This is a photograph of the cover of a red leather-bound book. The image captures a close-up view of the book's exterior, showcasing its red leather cover. The cover appears worn and slightly scuffed, with visible creases and imperfections. The spine of the book, visible on the left, shows wear at the edges where it meets the cover's surface. The texture of the leather is noticeable, and the stitching around the edges is subtly highlighted.

Album of Engravings after Sir Peter Paul Rubens

Various Artists

1613

This is a drawing of an ornate and historical title page. The image features an elaborate title page adorned with classical motifs and intricate detailing, bordered by draped figures and cherubs. The central oval cartouche displays the text "OBSIDIO BREDANA ARMIS PHILIPPI IIII. AVSPICIIS ISABELLÆ DVC TV AMBR. SPINOLÆ PERFECTA. SCRIBEBAT HERMANNVS HUGO SOCIETATIS IESV," surrounded by an intricate design with symbolic elements. Hierarchical figures flank each side, one muscular and partially nude holding a shovel, while the other is dressed in flowing garments. At the top, two winged cherubs reach towards the cartouche with a decorative flourish. Below them, a seated figure is entwined with another. The entire composition exudes a sense of regal importance.

Title Page for Herman Hugo's "Obsidio Bredana"

Cornelis Galle I

1626


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Sir Edward Astley (1729-1802), Norfolk (Lugt 2774 on plate 14); Frank Linsly James (book plate dated 1881); (sale, London, Christie's, 26 June 1996, lot 206); purchased (via Artemis [David Carritt Limited]) by NGA, 1996.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q75399273

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