A Mask on an Escutcheon Supported by Two Genii 1544

This 1544 engraving by Sebald Beham depicts a grotesque mask supported by two genii and framed by ornate scrollwork. The mask, with its large ears and exaggerated features, embodies a playful yet unsettling motif popular in Renaissance art. The cherubic genii add a whimsical contrast, their delicate forms highlighting the mask's bizarre presence. This detailed and intricately composed print reflects Beham's mastery of the engraving medium and his interest in both the grotesque and the classical. The work is part of a series exploring the theme of masks, showcasing Beham's versatility as an artist.