Panel of ornament with a bird-cage in the centre
Nicoletto da Modena Italian
Not on view
Nicoletto da Modena employs an engraving technique and a type of grotesque ornament that suggest this work was executed during his first trip to Rome. During his visit, he toured the newly unearthed Golden House of Nero, which at the time was the primary source for the study of this type of antique decoration. His composition, as in many of his prints, is arranged as a narrow panel and is almost completely symmetrical. Filled with mythical and historical figures, vegetal forms, medallions, armor, hybrid creatures, and birds, this sheet seems to be related to the theme of war. A small battle ensues above the central caged bird who is carried on the wings of a Genius, or demi-god, who may represent Fame.
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