Artwork

Arms of Rohrbach and Holzhausen

Arms of Rohrbach and Holzhausen, by Master bg, ink, 1485
Arms of Rohrbach and Holzhausen, by Master bg, ink, 1485

Arms of Rohrbach and Holzhausen is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master bg. It dates from 1485 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Arms of Rohrbach and Holzhausen is a print created by Master bg around 1485 using the engraving technique on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts two coats of arms side by side: one featuring three silver horns on a blue background, the other a black eagle on a gold background. These heraldic devices served as legal proof of status within the Holy Roman Empire.

Technique & Style

The artwork was produced by manually cutting a design into a metal plate, a process known as engraving, allowing for the creation of multiple impressions.

Context

In the Holy Roman Empire, nobles utilized engraved coats of arms like this one as evidence of their status and rights.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Master bg

Artist

Master bg

Master bg (1480–1490) was an artist.

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