Il Prete Ianni, Re d'Ethiopia (Prester John, King of Ethiopia)

Luca Ciamberlano

National Gallery of Art

The image shows an engraving of a man depicted from the waist up. The man is positioned facing slightly to the right with his body angled to one side, and his head turned towards the viewer. He has a full beard and mustache, with distinctive facial features, including slightly furrowed brows. His hair is covered by an elaborate turban or headpiece crowned with a small cross. The man is dressed in a heavy robe with a prominent collar, adding to his regal appearance. He holds a staff or scepter in his right hand. The background features a draped curtain on the right side and a heraldic shield featuring a cross on the left. The text below the engraving reads “IL PRETEIANNI, RE D’ETHIOPIA."