Cartouche met drie vrouwenmaskers en een saterskop 1572 - 1575

This intricate, anonymous print presents us with a cartouche made with an unknown material that is adorned with masks and the head of a satyr. The composition is striking: the symmetrical arrangement of faces, with a satyr at the base, creates a visual hierarchy that draws the eye downwards. The use of line is particularly effective, delineating each form with precision, and giving a tangible quality to the masks and floral elements. The faces themselves are fascinating. The contrast between the serene, almost classical features of the women and the grotesque, exaggerated features of the satyr is striking. This contrast disrupts a singular interpretation, inviting us to consider how beauty and the grotesque were perceived in relation to one another. Does the satyr represent chaos, challenging the idealised beauty of the women? Ultimately, this print destabilises fixed meanings. The arrangement of visual elements offers a space to continuously re-evaluate the relationship between opposing forces.