Artwork

Italian Joust of Peace

Italian Joust of Peace, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514
Italian Joust of Peace, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514

Italian Joust of Peace 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

Italian Joust of Peace is a 16th-century drawing by a German artist, created with pen, brown ink, watercolor, and leadpoint on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two armored knights on horseback engaged in a jousting match, characterized as a 'joust of peace', a ceremonial rather than a combat event. One lance splinters against the opponent's armor, while the horses display dynamic movement.

Technique & Style

The artist employed watercolor with thin glazes to achieve a sense of depth and luminosity, particularly in rendering the metallic sheen of the armor, without relying on heavy outlines.

Context

Unlike many contemporary drawings that documented actual battles, this work illustrates a festive and ritualistic event, highlighting the artist's interest in capturing a specific cultural practice.

History & Provenance

The drawing is housed at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

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.