Artwork

Foot Combat with Daggers

Foot Combat with Daggers, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514
Foot Combat with Daggers, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514

Foot Combat with Daggers is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist German 16th Century. It dates from 1514 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Foot Combat with Daggers is a 16th-century drawing depicting two armored figures engaged in a closely contested fight with daggers.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing illustrates a specific martial arts technique, serving as a visual guide to the use of daggers in close combat. The artist's detailed rendering of the fighters' stances and movements suggests its purpose as a training manual or instructional aid.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen and black ink with watercolor on laid paper, the drawing combines precise linework with watercolor washes to create depth and dimension. The artist's use of ink and watercolor effectively captures the tension and dynamics of the combat scene.

Context

Created in 16th-century Germany, the drawing reflects the era's interest in martial arts and the development of specialized combat techniques.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 16th Century

Artist

German 16th Century

A German artist from the late 1500s drew lively scenes of knights clashing in parades and mock battles.

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