Ornamental Frieze with Marine Creatures

Stefano Della Bella

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of ornate decorative scrollwork with mythical creatures. The image features intricate and elaborate scroll designs that include fancifully designed horses integrated into swirling patterns. In the center, two winged creatures appear emerging from the ornamental curves. Above them, a row of repeated sinuous and flowing forms resembling sea creatures adds to the mythical ambiance.