Cranequin (Winder) for a Crossbow
Unknown
1570/80 with a mid–17th century decoration
Medium
Steel, iron with gilding, wood, and cord
Dimensions
L. (open) 61 cm (24 in.)
Classification
crossbow
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
116824
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...