Artwork

Maximilian Presented by His Patron Saints to the Almighty

Maximilian Presented by His Patron Saints to the Almighty, by Hans Springinklee, 1519
Maximilian Presented by His Patron Saints to the Almighty, by Hans Springinklee, 1519

Maximilian Presented by His Patron Saints to the Almighty is a print by the Renaissance artist Hans Springinklee. It dates from 1519 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The print 'Maximilian Presented by His Patron Saints to the Almighty' is a work by Hans Springinklee, created in 1519. It is a representative example of a Northern Renaissance woodcut.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Emperor Maximilian I kneeling before a divine figure, accompanied by his patron saints. The scene blends religious iconography with a contemporary portrait, highlighting the connection between the earthly and divine realms.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by its dense composition, featuring numerous figures and symbols. The artist incorporated intricate details, such as tiny maps on shields, to convey the subject's power and dominion.

History & Provenance

Hans Springinklee, a pupil of Albrecht Dürer from Nuremberg, created this print in 1519. Springinklee was known primarily for his woodcuts, which reflect the style prominent in early 16th-century Germany.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hans Springinklee

Artist

Hans Springinklee

Hans Springinklee (c.1490/c.1495 – c.1540) was a German artist from Nuremberg, best known for his woodcuts. He was a pupil of Albrecht Dürer.

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