Museum collection · National Gallery of Art · 125207

Mortar

Foundry of Caspar Dietrich, second half 16th century

The sculpture is a bronze urn featuring relief work. It depicts human figures and mythical creatures such as centaurs. The figures are intricately detailed, with one central figure holding a spear or staff. The handles are shaped with figures. The color is dark brown typical of aged bronze, with a polished surface. The urn appears substantial and heavy, with depth and texture achieved through detailed carving and shadows. The urn has a broad rim and rounded base, emphasizing its solid form.

National Gallery of Art · National Gallery of Art, Washington · Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection · CC0 · Public domain

Artist: Foundry of Caspar Dietrich
Date: second half 16th century
Medium: bronze
Dimensions: 21.3 x 21.6 cm (8 3/8 x 8 1/2 in.)
Era: Museum collection

Why it matters

Mortar, dated second half 16th century, is catalogued by National Gallery of Art as a work in bronze. The museum attributes the work to Foundry of Caspar Dietrich. The recorded dimensions are 21.3 x 21.6 cm (8 3/8 x 8 1/2 in.). This factual page is generated from the museum catalogue and links directly to its source record.

National Gallery of Art collection record