Coat of Arms with Tumbling Boy

Israhel van Meckenem after Master of the Housebook

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a heraldic design with whimsical figures and intricate scrollwork. The design features a large shield or crest with elaborate patterns. Atop the shield, two exaggerated figures are depicted in a playful scene. One figure holds a staff with an ornamental object at the end. Inside the shield is an upside-down figure with curly hair. The drawing showcases attention to detail, texture, shading, and a playful exploration of form and content within the heraldic tradition.