Sea Monster (in two fragments) 1548 - 1612

This pen-and-ink drawing by the Italian artist Bernardino Poccetti, titled “Sea Monster (in two fragments)” depicts a fantastical creature, likely a griffin, in two parts. The drawing is a preparatory study for a larger work, possibly a fresco or a decorative element for a building. Poccetti, who worked primarily in Florence, was known for his decorative work and his skill in drawing figures and animals. The detailed lines and hatching in this drawing demonstrate his masterful technique. The fragmentary nature of the drawing adds to its allure, hinting at the larger composition it was intended for. This small but captivating work, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into Poccetti’s creative process and his artistic vision.