Artwork

Kaiser Sigmund

Kaiser Sigmund, by German 15th Century, ink, 1483
Kaiser Sigmund, by German 15th Century, ink, 1483

Kaiser Sigmund is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1483 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The print 'Kaiser Sigmund' is a hand-colored woodcut on laid paper, depicting a bearded man seated on a throne with symbols of imperial power.

Subject & Meaning

The figure, identified by German text as 'Kaiser Sigmund,' is shown with a crown, robes, sword, and globe, signifying his status as an emperor. A small dog is at his feet, and two shields with black eagles flank a green canopy behind him.

Technique & Style

The image features bright, flat colors and sharp lines, characteristic of woodcut prints. The technique involves carving into wood and applying color to create the final image.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

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