Palatial Mantelpiece with a Scene of Ancient Sacrifice [recto]
![Palatial Mantelpiece with a Scene of Ancient Sacrifice [recto] by German or Austrian 16th Century](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/palatial-mantelpiece-with-a-scene-of-ancient-nga-108663.webp)
Medium
pen and brown ink on laid paper
Dimensions
overall: 31.2 x 20.6 cm (12 5/16 x 8 1/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Mark J. Millard Architectural Collection
Accession Number
1999.8.1.a
Art Historical Context
This exquisite drawing, titled *Palatial Mantelpiece with a Scene of Sacrifice [recto]*, hails from 1571 and is attributed to a German or Austrian artist of the 16th century Crafted in pen and brown ink on paper—measuring 31.2 x 20.6 cm—it exemplifies the meticulous preparatory sketches favored by Renaissance draftsmen for architectural and decorative projects. Such works on paper were prized for their portability and precision, allowing designers to refine grand ideas before committing to stone or wood. The composition depicts an ornate mantelpiece, a focal point of palatial interiors, adorn...