Panel of Grotesques 1530 - 1585

Jacques Androuet Du Cerceau's "Panel of Grotesques" from the 16th century is a classic example of the grotesque style, a popular decorative motif in Renaissance art. The print features a fantastical array of winged creatures, human-like figures, and intricate foliage, arranged within a symmetrical framework. The central figure, a woman with butterfly wings, is particularly striking, highlighting the playful and whimsical nature of the grotesque. Du Cerceau, a renowned architect and designer, created numerous prints and illustrations, showcasing the burgeoning artistic trends of the time. This print, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serves as a testament to his mastery of decorative design and his fascination with the fantastical.