Master of the Die

Roman, active c. 1532

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This is a drawing of a battle between humans and lions in an ancient setting. The scene shows muscular male figures in minimal clothing fighting three lions. The humans wield weapons like swords and clubs as they combat the lions. The lions are depicted with powerful bodies and fierce expressions. In the background are large trees and a more civilized scene with buildings. The drawing is shaded to give a three-dimensional quality and highlight the tension and movement in the scene.
Master of the Die, Five Men Fighting Beasts, 1532, engraving on laid paper, Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen, 2006.162.13

Five Men Fighting Beasts

Master of the Die · 1532 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2006.162.13
This is a drawing of a mythological scene in nature. The image depicts a detailed arrangement of figures within a wooded landscape. On the left, there is a person tied to a tree. In the center, a kneeling figure appears to be interacting with a seated character holding a large lyre. The seated figure is crowned with foliage. Next to them, another character is seated and leaning on their arm. The background features trees, cloudy skies, and classical architectural elements. The drawing includes intricate line work and shading to render depth and form.
Master of the Die, Apollo and Marsyas, 1530s, engraving, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 1978.104.6

Apollo and Marsyas

Master of the Die · 1530s · engraving ·  Accession ID  1978.104.6
This is a drawing of three cherubic figures with wings, surrounded by garlands of fruits and flowers. The cherubic figures are dancing or engaging in a lively scene, with one holding a spear and another wielding a small bow. Above them, two birds are flying in the sky. On either side of the scene, the garlands are tied off with ribbons and consist of fruit, leaves, and flowers. At the bottom of the drawing, small mythical-like creatures, including a dog and another animal, are present. This artwork conveys a sense of vitality and abundance with a blend of the natural world and mythical creatures, showcasing an interplay of character and nature.
Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri, Two Putti...Striking Another Who Is Squeezing a Child, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1964.8.1253

Two Putti...Striking Another Who Is Squeezing a Child

Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri · engraving ·  Accession ID  1964.8.1253
The image shows a triumphal procession. A group of soldiers and horses are marching through an archway carrying objects and banners. The figures are dressed in Roman military attire. Spears and standards rise above the crowd, and an ornate cart is being carried to the side. The drawing features detailed linework to convey texture and form, creating a sense of depth and movement.
Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri, The Triumph of Scipio, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.5832

The Triumph of Scipio

Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.5832
This is a drawing of a mythological scene with numerous figures and classical architecture. The central figure is a muscular, bearded man holding a large club. Surrounding him are various other figures in dynamic poses, with classical drapery. The background features columns, arches, and a cloudy sky. The engraving is detailed, capturing the drama typical of mythological narratives.
Master of the Die, Philippe Thomassin, Envy Driven from the Temple of the Muses, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.5830

Envy Driven from the Temple of the Muses

Master of the Die, Philippe Thomassin · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.5830
This is a drawing of cherubic figures with wings interacting in a wooded setting. The figures are depicted as chubby and playful, with some holding branches or arrows. The background is filled with detailed foliage and trees, giving a sense of depth and a natural environment. A variety of expressions are portrayed among the figures, from curiosity to playfulness, creating an intricate scene full of movement and life. The fine lines and shading suggest this is a finely executed work in the style of classical engravings or high Renaissance artistry. The level of detail in the figures and the background demonstrates a high level of skill and attention to the human form and natural elements.
Master of the Die, Putti Playing, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1946.21.137

Putti Playing

Master of the Die · engraving ·  Accession ID  1946.21.137
This is a drawing of a naval battle scene featuring ancient ships engaged in combat. The detailed linework illustrates several ornate ships with armored figures on board, some armed with spears and shields, while others are seen rowing. The ships are adorned with intricate carvings and designs, including images of mythical figures and patterns. The sea is depicted with swirling waves, adding intensity to the scene. The overall composition highlights historical motifs and demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship in its portrayal of an ancient maritime conflict.
Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri, Naval Battle, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.5831

Naval Battle

Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.5831
This is a drawing of a battle scene featuring warriors and horses engaged in combat. Soldiers are shown fighting with swords and shields, while horses are charging and rearing. In the background is a fortified city with towers and battlements. The drawing is detailed, showing armor, weapons, and muscular anatomy. Clouds in the sky provide a backdrop to the action below.
Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri, The Victory of Scipio over Syphax, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1964.8.1254

The Victory of Scipio over Syphax

Master of the Die, Antonio Lafreri · engraving ·  Accession ID  1964.8.1254
The image displays a man standing in a natural setting. He has long hair and a beard, detailed facial features, and wears a draped cloak with a tunic underneath. One of his legs is raised on a tree stump, showing a bare foot. A small rope is around his neck. There is an aura or halo around his head. By his feet are a hat and a stick, and a dog looks up at him. A cloud to the left shows an angel reaching towards the man. To the right, a village or town with buildings and trees is visible. The scene is full of natural elements like trees and grass. In the distance to the left, two figures are near a building.
Master of the Die, Saint Roch, engraving, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 1978.104.7

Saint Roch

Master of the Die · engraving ·  Accession ID  1978.104.7
The image shows a female figure standing with a small ornate object in her left hand. She is turned slightly to her right, looking up at the object, with detailed facial features and long wavy hair. She wears a flowing garment and a circular headpiece, with bare feet visible. The background includes rolling hills, fortified buildings, and mountains under a cloudy sky.
Master of the Die, The Magdalen, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.5829

The Magdalen

Master of the Die · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.5829