Title Page for Agostino Mascardi, Silvarium Libri IV

Theodor Galle after Sir Peter Paul Rubens

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an ornate title page from a historical book featuring classical figures, heraldic symbols, and inscriptions. The central panel contains Latin text stating "AUGUSTINI MASCARDI SILVARUM LIBRI IV." Flanking the text are two cherubic figures, one playing a lyre and the other blowing into a horn. Above the text is a decorative crest with a laurel-crowned profile, while the sides feature intricate foliage and scrolling elements. The bottom portion includes two stylized faces, one wearing a helmet, with a central motif of a Pegasus or winged horse.