Brooch with Table-Stones, Winged Dragons at Top, and Griffins at Bottom 1596

This print, "Brooch with Table-Stones, Winged Dragons at Top, and Griffins at Bottom" by Daniel Mignot, presents a symmetrical array of fantastical creatures and geometric forms, rendered with fine, precise lines. The design emphasizes balance and symmetry, evoking a sense of classical order. The composition is structured around a central, ornate motif resembling a stylized cross, adorned with diamonds and floral elements. Above, winged dragons mirror each other, while below, griffins flank a small, bell-like shape. Dragonflies punctuate the sides, adding to the delicate, ornamental feel. The linear quality and meticulous detail suggest a focus on craftsmanship and the intrinsic beauty of form. This print functions not merely as a decorative template but also as a semiotic system. The creatures, rendered in stark black lines against the white background, might be seen as emblems of power, vigilance, and transformation. The symmetry and intricate details invite us to decode the underlying structures of meaning embedded within Mignot's design.