Artwork

Ornament Panel: Nereid Ridden by Two Children

Ornament Panel: Nereid Ridden by Two Children, by Giovanni Pietro Birago, ink, 1510
Ornament Panel: Nereid Ridden by Two Children, by Giovanni Pietro Birago, ink, 1510

Ornament Panel: Nereid Ridden by Two Children is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Giovanni Pietro Birago. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Ornament Panel: Nereid Ridden by Two Children is an engraving created by Giovanni Pietro Birago around 1510. The print features a complex arrangement of decorative elements and figures.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a sea nymph, or nereid, with a fish tail, ridden by two children. The scene is surrounded by ornate details, including a vase on a pedestal and a decorative arch with figures and scrolls.

Technique & Style

The print is characterized by intricate lines and textures, achieved through the engraving technique. The use of fine lines to create shading and detail gives the image a metallic appearance, typical of engravings from the early 16th century.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.