Who painted Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors?

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors was painted by German 16th Century in 1514.

Where can I see Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors?

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors?

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors

German 16th Century , 1514

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors 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. The work is a small drawing measuring roughly 33 by 26 centimetres, executed on laid paper.

About this work

Overview

The work is a small drawing measuring roughly 33 by 26 centimetres, executed on laid paper. It portrays a stylised jousting episode, featuring two mounted combatants in full armour, their shields depicted as soaring through the air. The composition combines ink line work with watercolor washes applied over a black chalk ground, giving the scene a muted yet detailed appearance.

Subject & Meaning

The image captures a 16th‑century German tournament motif, yet it departs from a literal record of combat. The riders are shown with helmets lacking facial protection, and the shields appear detached, emphasizing the theatricality of the sport. This playful treatment suggests an interest in the spectacle’s decorative elements rather than a documentary portrayal of martial skill.

Technique & Style

Fine black‑ink lines define the figures and their equipment, while translucent watercolor washes add tonal variation to the horses, armour and background. The artist employed black chalk as an underlayer, allowing the washes to interact with the dark ground and create subtle contrast. The overall effect balances precise draftsmanship with a loose, sketch‑like quality.

History & Provenance

The drawing is part of the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Its provenance traces to the museum’s acquisition records, though the creator remains unidentified. The piece reflects the period’s fascination with tournament iconography and the broader tradition of illustrative studies made for decorative or instructional purposes.