Artwork
Joshua, David and Judas Maccabaeus
Joshua, David and Judas Maccabaeus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
This piece was made in 1516, showing how Renaissance artists mixed religious stories with detailed craftsmanship.
This woodcut shows three men in fancy armor and hats, standing close together. The middle figure holds a round shield with a design on it. Their clothes have lots of detailed patterns, and the background has small animals and a rocky ground. The text at the top names them as Joshua, David, and Judas Maccabeus.
The artist used sharp lines to create depth and texture, a trick common in woodcuts. This piece was made in 1516, showing how Renaissance artists mixed religious stories with detailed craftsmanship.
Next, look up woodcut to see how this printing method shaped art history.
Overview
Joshua, David and Judas Maccabaeus is a woodcut created by Hans Burgkmair I in 1516. The print depicts three biblical figures in ornate attire.
Subject & Meaning
The woodcut shows Joshua, David, and Judas Maccabeus standing together, identified by text at the top. The figures wear elaborate armor and hats, with the central figure holding a shield bearing a design.
Technique & Style
The artist employed sharp lines to achieve depth and texture, a characteristic technique of woodcut art. Intricate patterns adorn the figures' clothing, while the background features small animals and rocky terrain.
History & Provenance
Created in 1516, this woodcut exemplifies the Renaissance fusion of religious narrative and detailed craftsmanship.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Burgkmair the Elder (1473–1531) was a German artist, born in Augsburg.
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