Design for a Chalice Surmounted by a Maltese Cross 1580 - 1620

This anonymous 16th-century drawing, created between 1580 and 1620, depicts a design for a chalice surmounted by a Maltese cross. Executed in red chalk on paper, the design showcases intricate details, particularly the elaborate ornamentation of the chalice and the intricate Maltese cross at its apex. This design, held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship prevalent in the 16th century and offers a glimpse into the world of religious artifacts and the artistic trends of the era.