Giovanni Ambrogio Brambilla

Giovanni Ambrogio Brambilla was a printmaker active during the mid-to-late sixteenth century, with his documented artistic period spanning approximately 1530 to 1581. His output, consisting primarily of engravings and etchings, is significant for its documentation of contemporary events and Roman topography.

Fifteen Giovanni Ambrogio Brambilla prints are currently represented in major museum collections, establishing his work as a source for understanding sixteenth-century visual culture. His works are held, most notably, by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Brambilla contributed to the Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae (The Mirror of Roman Magnificence), a monumental graphic series dedicated to documenting the architecture and life of Rome. Key contributions include detailed topographical depictions such as St. Peter's and the ceremonial record Papal Benediction. Beyond architectural documentation, Brambilla captured significant political and social moments, including the print Audience given by Pope Pius V to Cosimo I, Duke of Tuscany, as well as genre subjects like A man climbs a ladder while a woman throws water on him from above and the satirical Caricature with two men on a mule.

The survival of these high-quality prints provides valuable insight into the range of subjects embraced by Renaissance printmakers. Having long since entered the public domain, Brambilla’s documented works are accessible as downloadable artwork, ensuring their continued study.