Object Image

Design for a Sword or Dagger Handle with Putto-Head and Lion's-Head Masks

Handle design divided horizontally into two sections. At top, a winged putto head at center under a canopy and flanked by two squirrels facing inwards. Below, a lion's head flanked by grotesque scrolling tendrils that terminate is grotesque bird's heads. Above, a pair of snails.

Credit: The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 1962

1592-93

Engraving and blackwork

7.2 x 2.9 cm

62.598.156

Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2019

Where you'll find this

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Permanent collection