Flemish Grotesque Creatures and a Candelabra Grotesque (recto); Candelabra Grotesques with Mask (verso) 16th century

This 16th century drawing by Andrés de Melgar, a Spanish artist known for his ornamental designs, showcases a series of grotesque creatures and decorative elements. The recto side features three fantastical beasts, each with a unique mix of animal and human traits, while the verso features a series of masks and candelabra-like forms. The work demonstrates the artist's fascination with the grotesque, a popular artistic motif in the Renaissance, and his skill in depicting intricate details. The drawing, created in pen and ink, captures the imaginative spirit of the period, demonstrating the intricate and fantastical nature of decorative arts in the 16th century.