Artwork
Ornament
Ornament is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Theodor de Bry. It dates from 1563 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Ornament is a 1563 engraving by Theodor de Bry, a Walloon artist who escaped the Spanish Netherlands amid religious conflict. Executed as a tall, narrow print, the work combines ornamental framing with narrative scenes, reflecting de Bry’s dual role as illustrator and publisher of contemporary and historical subjects.
Subject & Meaning
The central imagery presents two biblical episodes labeled “GENESIS III,” accompanied by the Latin term “PERFECTAMOS” at the top. The scenes depict figures in robes and classical postures, suggesting an allegorical interpretation of the Genesis narrative within a decorative context.
Technique & Style
De Bry employs fine parallel hatching to achieve delicate shading, creating sharp lines and intricate textures throughout the border and figures. The ornamental crown‑like motif and swirling patterns exemplify the precision and symbolic detail characteristic of mid‑16th‑century printmaking.
History & Provenance
After working in several European cities, de Bry settled in Frankfurt, where he produced a substantial corpus of engraved illustrations for his own publications. Ornament belongs to this period of his output, illustrating his skill as both engraver and publisher before his later ventures documenting early European voyages.
Context
The engraving reflects the broader Renaissance interest in combining decorative design with biblical storytelling. Its classical figure types and elaborate border align with contemporary trends that favored learned symbolism and meticulous visual documentation.
Artist & collection
Artist
Theodor de Bry (also Theodorus de Bry; 1528 – 27 March 1598) was a Walloon engraver, goldsmith, editor and publisher, famous for his depictions of early European expeditions to the Americas.
