Artwork

A Standing Courtier

A Standing Courtier, by South German 15th Century, ink, 1440
A Standing Courtier, by South German 15th Century, ink, 1440

A Standing Courtier is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist South German 15th Century. It dates from 1440 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

A Standing Courtier is a drawing executed in pen and black ink with gray wash on laid paper, depicting a male figure in Renaissance attire.

Subject & Meaning

The figure stands with his weight on one leg, wearing a hat, long-sleeved shirt, and a short skirt over tights. His left arm hangs relaxed, while his right arm is bent, with his hand resting on his hip, conveying a sense of elegance and poise.

Technique & Style

The drawing features cross-hatching, which creates shading and texture, adding depth and dimension to the figure's clothing, with intricate folds and creases rendered in detail.

Context

The Renaissance style is evident in the figure's clothing and posture, situating the drawing within the artistic and cultural traditions of 15th- to 17th-century Europe.

Artist & collection

Portrait of South German 15th Century

Artist

South German 15th Century

This South German artist from the late 1400s made drawings on paper and carved wooden sculptures.

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