Two crest designs 

Jost Amman created these two crest designs in pen and brush, with black and grey ink and white heightening on blue paper. The symmetrical composition immediately strikes us, each crest mirroring the other in its elaborate, swirling ornamentation. The animals—dogs and a swan—are rendered with a keen sense of observation. They carry symbolic weight, reflecting status and lineage. The strategic use of line and shadow adds volume to the crests, suggesting depth and texture that’s almost tangible. Amman's technique of heightening with white ink against the blue ground creates a dramatic contrast, emphasizing the intricate details of the foliage and the heraldic beasts. This contrast does more than just highlight form; it invokes the values of the families represented. The precise, controlled lines and the balanced arrangement speak to a world deeply invested in order and meaning. This graphic approach underscores how symbols could function as powerful indicators of identity in early modern society. The design is not just visually appealing; it is a complex statement about the relationship between image, representation, and social structure.