Targhe ed altri ornati di varie e capricciose invenzioni (Cartouches and other ornaments of various and capricious invention, page 19) 1555

This etching, Targhe ed altri ornati di varie e capricciose invenzioni, was created by Hans Vredeman de Vries in the 16th century. During this time, cartography and ornamental design played crucial roles in shaping European identity and power. De Vries, a Dutch architect and engineer, published books that served as guides for architects, garden designers, and artisans. This print reflects the era's fascination with classical motifs mixed with fantastical elements, which became fashionable during the Renaissance. It shows an elaborate frame adorned with grotesque masks, cherubic figures, and scrolling patterns. Consider the function of such ornament during the early modern period. These designs weren't just decorative, they were tools of cultural expression. The grotesque elements, often considered ‘ugly’ or ‘monstrous,’ were embraced for their ability to challenge conventional notions of beauty and order. The balance of classical and whimsical design allowed de Vries to create frames that reflected a world in flux, a world eager to embrace both tradition and change. Reflect on the many ways identity is built through design, even today.