Artwork

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors

Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors, by German 16th Century, ink, 1514
Mock Joust of War with Flying Shields and Without Bevors, by German 16th Century, ink, 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. This 16th-century German drawing captures a dynamic jousting scene, measuring 33.

About this work

Overview

This 16th-century German drawing captures a dynamic jousting scene, measuring 33.1 × 26.2 cm. Executed in pen and black ink with watercolor over black chalk and leadpoint on laid paper, it portrays two armored knights on horseback in mid-combat.

Subject & Meaning

The scene focuses on a jousting tournament, highlighting the clash of lances and the consequent flight of shields. Notably, the knights' helmets lack bevors, the protective neck flaps typically associated with such armor, introducing an element of anomaly.

Technique & Style

The artist combined pen and black ink with watercolor over preliminary black chalk and leadpoint drawings on laid paper. This layered approach creates a vivid, expressive depiction of the joust, with the watercolor adding a sense of movement and energy.

History & Provenance

Currently housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, the drawing's specific historical context or artist attribution is not detailed here, emphasizing instead its presence within a renowned collection.

Context

While the drawing's playful tone contrasts with the seriousness of actual jousting events, it reflects the cultural significance of such tournaments in 16th-century Germany, blending realism with whimsical elements like the absent bevors and flying shields.

Legacy

As part of the National Gallery of Art's holdings, this drawing contributes to the understanding and appreciation of 16th-century German artistic practices and the depiction of chivalric themes in a more lighthearted manner.

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.