Artwork

Hans Roth [reverse]

Hans Roth [reverse], by Bernhard Strigel, oil, 1527
Hans Roth [reverse], by Bernhard Strigel, oil, 1527

Hans Roth [reverse] is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bernhard Strigel. It dates from 1527 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Bernhard Strigel, a German painter associated with the Swabian school, completed *Hans Roth [reverse]* in 1527.

Bernhard Strigel, a German painter associated with the Swabian school, completed *Hans Roth [reverse]* in 1527. Executed in oil on panel, this work represents the reverse side of a portrait. While the obverse typically features the sitter, the reverse often displayed heraldic devices or inscriptions, providing additional context about the individual depicted. This particular panel showcases a coat of arms, a common practice for such works.

Subject & Meaning

The reverse of the *Hans Roth* portrait features a distinctive coat of arms set against a vibrant red background. This heraldic emblem includes a horse's head and a shield, elements that would have identified the sitter or their family lineage. Such personal insignia on the back of a portrait served to reinforce the identity and social standing of the individual presented on the primary side of the panel. A brown wooden frame with a grid of bars further encloses the design.

Context

Bernhard Strigel was a prominent artist from Memmingen, active during the early 16th century. He came from a family of artists and likely received his training under Bartholomäus Zeitblom in Ulm, a significant artistic center. Strigel's reputation extended to the imperial court, where he was favored by Emperor Maximilian I. His broader artistic output encompassed both religious subjects and a notable body of portraiture, reflecting the diverse demands of his patrons.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernhard Strigel

Artist

Bernhard Strigel

Bernhard Strigel (c. 1461 – 4 May 1528) was a German portrait and historical painter of the Swabian school, the most important of a family of artists established at Memmingen. He was born at Memmingen and was probably a…

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