Printer's Mark of Giolito de' Ferrari, from Remigius, Orationi Militari 1560

Editor: This is the Printer's Mark of Giolito de' Ferrari, from "Orationi Militari." It's unsigned and undated, but resides at the Harvard Art Museums. The image is quite striking, with the oval composition and the bird at the center. What stands out to you about its formal elements? Curator: The mark's composition is rigorously structured. Note how the oval's shape dictates the arrangement of the emblem. The bird, likely a phoenix, emerges from a vessel, its form mirrored by the sun above. This visual symmetry creates a balanced, self-contained system. The interplay of light and shadow is crucial; it adds depth and visual interest. Editor: It's fascinating how the structure reinforces the visual impact of the bird. I hadn't considered that level of symbolic intention. Curator: Indeed. The formal elements amplify the intended meaning and message of the work. Editor: I see it now. Thanks for pointing that out.