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The image displays a complex design of curved lines intersecting to form a spiral structure with a pointed star at the top. It resembles a futuristic dome with geometric patterns similar to a honeycomb or segmented armor. The structure sits on a base resembling a three-dimensional pyramid, giving it the appearance of a surreal architectural model.
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The image displays a complex design of curved lines intersecting to form a spiral structure with a pointed star at the top. It resembles a futuristic dome with geometric patterns similar to a honeycomb or segmented armor. The structure sits on a base resembling a three-dimensional pyramid, giving it the appearance of a surreal architectural model.

National Gallery of Art · Print

A Perspective of a Faceted Snail Shell Balanced on a Pyramid

Mathis Zündt, after Hans Lencker

Date
1567
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 23.6 × 25.2 cm (9 5/16 × 9 15/16 in.) sheet: 26.7 × 28.4 cm (10 1/2 × 11 3/16 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
2014.66.2
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1551 to 1600
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • Stars
  • Shell
  • Geometric
Provenance

(Kunsthandlung Helmut H. Rumbler, Frankfurt am Main); purchased 2014 by NGA.

NGA object ID 164734. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.