Giovanni Pietro da Birago

Giovanni Pietro da Birago was an engraver active primarily between 1472 and 1505. Although biographical records detailing his life are sparse, his extant work demonstrates a command of printmaking techniques utilized during the late fifteenth century. His recorded output consists exclusively of prints, with ten works currently documented across major museum collections.

Birago’s subject matter encompasses both mythological scenes and intricate ornament panels. Notable examples of his figurative compositions include Twelve Cupids Playing and Cupid riding a goat accompanied by two satyrs, landscape in the background. He also addressed religious themes, exemplified by the print The Last Supper, with a Spaniel. Additionally, his production included decorative works, such as the detailed plates from the Twelve Ornament Panels series, including Three Children Blowing Horns and Four Children with a Cat and a Dog.

The significance of Giovanni Pietro da Birago prints is underscored by their preservation in important institutions. Works by the artist are held in the permanent collections of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Museum of Art. These museum-quality impressions allow for continued scholarly examination. As early engravings, many of these historical works reside in the public domain, ensuring access to high-quality prints and downloadable artwork for researchers and enthusiasts.