Who created "Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua"?

Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua was created by Johann Theodor de Bry in 1580–1600.

When was "Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua" created?

This artwork was created 1580–1600.

What medium is "Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua"?

Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua is Engraving and blackwork.

Is "Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua" in the public domain?

Yes, Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua is in the public domain and available for free download under CC0 license.

Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua

Johann Theodor de Bry

1580–1600

Medium

Engraving and blackwork

Dimensions

Sheet: 3 5/8 × 2 5/16 in. (9.2 × 5.9 cm)

Classification

Prints|Ornament & Architecture

Department

Drawings and Prints

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Gift of Lucien Goldschmidt, 1977

Accession Number

1977.558.3

Tags

Knives

Art Historical Context

In the late 16th century, Theodor de Bry, a engraver from the prolific de Bry family of Antwerp and Frankfurt, created this intricate *Design for Knife Handles with and Aqua* around 1580–1600. The small engraving (just 3 5/8 × 2 5/16 inches) depicts ornate hilts inspired by classical motifs: the goddess Terra, symbolizing earth with her cornucopia of abundance, and Aqua,oking water through flowing jugs and vessels. These designs reflect the Renaissance fascination with mythological personifications, blending antiquity with contemporary craftsmanship. Rendered in engraving and blackwork—a tech...

About the Artist

Johann Theodor de Bry · 1561–1923

Comment on works: copper engraver

Design for Knife Handles with Terra and Aqua

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