Artwork

Coronation of the Emperor

Coronation of the Emperor, by Unknown, ink, 1568
Coronation of the Emperor, by Unknown, ink, 1568

Coronation of the Emperor is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1568 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing depicts a densely populated scene of the Coronation of the Emperor, executed in pen and brown ink over graphite with touches of black crayon on laid paper. The composition is characterized by a crowded, dynamic atmosphere.

Subject & Meaning

At the center of the drawing, a figure on a raised platform is the focal point, surrounded by a diverse group of onlookers, musicians, and dignitaries in robes or kneeling, some holding tall staffs. The scene conveys the pomp and ceremony of the imperial coronation.

Technique & Style

The artist employed quick, sketchy lines to render the scene, with the background featuring suggested buildings and additional figures. Notably, cross-hatching with small parallel lines was used to achieve depth and texture, adding visual richness without relying on color.

Context

While specific contextual details about the drawing's creation are not provided, the use of cross-hatching reflects a common technique in European drawing traditions for achieving shading and dimensionality on paper.

History & Provenance

No specific historical or provenance details are provided about the drawing's creation date, artist, or ownership history.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.