Design for an Inkstand 1540 - 1560

Ottavio Strada's "Design for an Inkstand" (1540-1560) is a detailed pen and ink drawing that depicts a highly ornate inkstand. The design features multiple figures, including a winged woman, reclining figures, and a decorative border of foliage and scrolls, reminiscent of the Mannerist style popular during the Italian Renaissance. This meticulous drawing serves as a blueprint for a grand inkstand, intended for use by an affluent patron. Its intricate details demonstrate the artist's skill in creating designs for luxurious objects. The inkstand's design would have been intended for display and practical use, reflecting the refined taste of the Renaissance era.