Artwork
The Nine Heroes: Joshua, David, Judas Maccabees
The Nine Heroes: Joshua, David, Judas Maccabees is a print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Nine Heroes: Joshua, David, Judas Maccabees is a 1516 engraving by Lucas van Leyden, a renowned Dutch painter and printmaker. The work is housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
This engraving depicts three biblical warriors—Joshua, David, and Judas Maccabeus—representing a selection from the medieval literary tradition of the Nine Heroes, showcasing exemplary historical and biblical figures known for their bravery and leadership.
Technique & Style
The detailed black-and-white print features intricate engravings, with each figure distinguished by weaponry (spear, shield, sword) and personalized banners. The composition incorporates lush background elements (trees, animals) and utilizes expressive lines to achieve a near three-dimensional depth, characteristic of early Renaissance printmaking techniques.
History & Provenance
Created in 1516 by Lucas van Leyden, the engraving is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, highlighting the artist's mastery of engraving, a skill for which he was particularly acclaimed.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas van Leyden (1494 – 8 August 1533), was a Dutch painter and printmaker in engraving and woodcut. Lucas van Leyden was among the first Dutch exponents of genre painting and was a very accomplished engraver.
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