Bilder Girolamo Ruscelli (1504–1566) – Title Page for Book Three of Illustrious Devices – Engraving (1566)

Beskrivning

"Libro Terzo" depicts the highly ornate architectural title page for the third section of Ruscelli's seminal work on heraldry. The central rectangular panel contains the publication's title and a dedication to Guglielmo Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua, framed by an elaborate Mannerist border. This border features a pair of muscular male caryatids flanking the text, a central coat of arms at the base supported by two female figures, and reclining nude figures atop the structure amidst decorative drapery and vases. This copper engraving was published in Venice as part of Le Imprese Illustri con Esposizioni et Discorsi, a prestigious volume documenting the symbolic emblems and philosophical mottos of the European nobility. The work is celebrated for its intricate artistic execution and its significant role in the 16th-century tradition of emblem books.

Girolamo Ruscelli was an Italian humanist, polymath, and cartographer who was a central figure in the literary and scientific circles of mid-sixteenth-century Venice. He was a prolific editor and author, known for his expanded editions of Ptolemy's Geography and his foundational work on the study of heraldic devices and emblems. Ruscelli founded the Accademia dei Dubbiosi and published extensively on topics ranging from linguistics and poetry to secret recipes and natural philosophy. His contributions to the visual arts were primarily through the conceptualization and production of high-quality emblem books, which utilized some of the finest engravers of the period to create lasting records of Renaissance symbolism.

Artist or Maker: Girolamo Ruscelli.

Dimensions: Approximately 26 cm x 19 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1566.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.