Escutcheon

probably mid-16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 535

Made as the plate for a handle or a knocker, this escutcheon was attached to the door by the two baluster-shaped staples (one of which is modern). The skill of Spanish ironworkers was such that they could execute the elaborate grotesque ornament in the difficult medium of repossé iron. The style is derived from Roman wall decorations, which were discovered during excavations of the Golden House of Nero in Rome, begun about 1480.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Escutcheon
Date: probably mid-16th century
Culture: Spanish
Medium: Wrought iron with traces of gilding
Dimensions: Overall (.4a): 14 3/8 × 5 1/2 in. (36.5 × 14 cm);
Height (each .4b and .4c): 8 5/16 in. (21.1 cm)
Classification: Metalwork-Iron
Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1957
Object Number: 57.137.4a–c
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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