This print is a copy after Adriaen Collaert’s Mercury from a series of ornament prints showing the individual Gods involved in the mythological story of the Judgement of Paris, they are placed in roundels and framed by intricate grotesque patterns. The print shows Collaert’s design in reverse and is much cruder in its execution. What is most interesting about this print is that its maker has combined two techniques to create the dark background for his ornaments. One half of the frame is done in blackwork, while the other half is filled with horizontal hatchings. The print is most likely a unique piece, made by an artist who was trying out different techniques and studying their effect.
