Capital and Base of a Column

Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an ornate architectural column capital. The image is a detailed illustration of a classical Doric column capital, featuring intricate decorative elements such as scrolls and leaf motifs. The capital includes a human face motif at the center, flanked by elaborate swirling volutes. The drawing displays fine lines and shading techniques that emphasize the textural details of the stonework. Text in an old-style serif font is presented around the image, likely referring to Vitruvius, an ancient Roman architect. The year 1545 is inscribed at the top, along with additional text in another language, adding an academic or historical context to the artwork.