Grotesque Panel 1550

Jacques Androuet Du Cerceau made this "Grotesque Panel" sometime in the 16th century. It's a small print, only about 4 by 2 and ¾ inches, and it shows a complex, fantastical design with hybrid creatures and elaborate ornamentation. This kind of print was made in France during a time of great social and religious upheaval. France was experiencing a building boom among the elite and images like these offered a range of ornamental ideas for the decoration of both secular and religious buildings. The grotesque style, with its playful combination of human, animal, and plant forms, was popular among the educated elite who wanted to signal their sophistication and taste. Studying the history of printmaking helps us understand how knowledge and ideas circulated in the 16th century, and how artists adapted classical forms to suit the needs and tastes of their patrons. By examining period documents, architectural drawings, and social histories, we can learn more about the cultural context of this fascinating and influential print.