The Battle at Nauders, from "Der Weisskunig"
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Bequest of George Campbell Cooper
Accession Number
1896-3-49
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Hans Burgkmair the (1473–1531), a leading German artist of the Northern Renaissance, created *The Battle at Nauders as part of the grand illustrated biography *Der Weisskunig ("The White King"). Commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I, this unfinished work chronicled the emperor's life through vivid woodcut prints, blending biography, propaganda, and epic storytelling. Burgkmair's contributions captured key military triumphs, showcasing his mastery of detailed, dynamic compositions that elevated woodcuts from mere illustration to high art. This print depicts the dramatic Battle at Nau...