Wrought Metal Foliate Ornament with Grotesque Masks 1870 - 1890

This anonymous 19th-century drawing is a design for a wrought iron ornament. The design features a central figure of a winged cherub flanked by two grotesque masks. The ornament is highly detailed with scrolling foliage and intricate flourishes. The drawing was likely intended for use by a metalworker or blacksmith. The detail of the design and the inclusion of scale indicates that the artist was skilled in both artistic representation and technical drawing. This piece provides valuable insight into the metalwork practices and decorative styles of the 19th century.