Gustus (Taste)

Cornelis Cort after Frans Floris I

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a person seated on the ground. The individual is positioned facing slightly to the right, leaning forward with an elbow resting on a wicker basket while holding a knife and a piece of fruit. The person has classical stylized features, with their hair mostly covered. They are wearing a long-sleeved garment that extends to the ankles and there are no visible pieces of jewelry. Around the figure are elements like a large wicker basket overflowing with fruits and a small monkey on the right side interacting with a pear. In the background, there are detailed trees with thick trunks and leafy branches. The setting suggests an outdoor environment, with a stone surface and a metal goblet on a small pedestal placed nearby. The image is characterized by intricate linework, indicative of an engraving.