Ornament for Knife Handle

Theodor de Bry

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of two intricate dagger designs. The image features highly detailed engravings of ornamental dagger handles or scabbards with elaborate motifs. On the left, the design displays an oval with a figure set within it, surrounded by decorative elements such as scrolling foliage and putti or cherubic faces. The right design showcases a similar style with a human form with wings at the top, also enveloped by ornate swirls and floral patterns. Both designs include a variety of motifs including flowers, leaves, and urns, indicating a rich and intricate approach to design.