Artwork
Lansquenet
Lansquenet is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master MS. It dates from 1540 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The engraving Lansquenet, created in 1540 by Master M. S., is a print depicting a scene associated with German mercenary soldiers. The artist, active in the Kingdom of Hungary, remains anonymous, with some historians speculating a connection to Matthäus Zaisinger.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving shows a man on horseback, dressed in Renaissance attire, holding a sword, with another figure behind him. The scene is likely related to lansquenets, a type of mercenary soldier prevalent in Central Europe during this period.
Technique & Style
The engraving features intricate cross-hatching, creating texture and depth, with shading and shadow adding dynamism to the image. The level of detail is notable, reflecting the artist's skill in using engraving techniques to convey a vivid scene.
History & Provenance
Master M. S. worked in Selmecbánya, now Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia, likely leading a local workshop during the late Gothic and early Renaissance periods. The true identity of Master M. S. remains unknown.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master M. S. (Hungarian: M. S. Mester, German: Meister M. S., Slovak: Majster M. S.) was a 16th-century painter in Central Europe in late Gothic and early Renaissance art. He was active in Selmecbánya (now Banská…
