Artwork
Assembly of Four Kings, in the foreground Four Men
Assembly of Four Kings, in the foreground Four Men is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Leonhard Beck. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Assembly of Four Kings, in the foreground Four Men is a woodcut print created by Leonhard Beck in 1515. It depicts a gathering of crowned figures and other men.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows four kings on a rocky base, holding staffs or scepters, with three more crowned figures in the background. The contrast between the simpler, smaller front figures and the larger, more ornate ones behind may indicate a hierarchy or commentary on power.
Technique & Style
The woodcut features sharp, detailed lines and intricate patterns in the robes and crowns. The technique involves carving a design into a wood block, which is then used to print the image.
History & Provenance
Leonhard Beck, a painter and woodcut designer from Augsburg, Germany, created the print. He trained under Hans Holbein the Elder and worked on projects for Emperor Maximilian I's artistic team.
Artist & collection
Artist
Leonhard Beck (c. 1480 – 1542) was a painter and woodcuts designer in Augsburg, Germany. He was the son of Georg Beck, a miniaturist who was active in Augsburg c. 1490–1512/15. Leonhard collaborated with his father on…
Saint Stephen before the Council
The Bad Advice of One Little Man to Another
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The Betrothal of Philip the Fair with Joan of Castile
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The Congress of Princes at Vienna
A king Enthroned
The Archbishop Blessing the Child after the Baptism