King Christian II of Denmark 1546

Curator: This is Augustin Hirschvogel's print of King Christian II of Denmark, a work of around 1546. The dimensions are roughly 19 by 10 centimeters. Editor: The detail is astounding, especially given its small scale. It's almost overwhelming, this figure encased in armor. Curator: Hirschvogel was known for his prints and his work as a cartographer. The print medium allowed for wider circulation of such images, enhancing the king's image through reproducibility. Editor: The artist uses hatching and cross-hatching to create tone and volume. The armor almost appears to ripple, reflecting light and shadow. Curator: This print demonstrates the intricate processes that workshops used. The use of metal plates and acid etching transformed the reproduction and distribution of imagery. Editor: The composition is fascinating; the figure seems almost pinned to the picture plane, the rigid verticality emphasizing strength and authority. Curator: Studying this work provides insight into 16th-century printmaking and its role in shaping public perception. Editor: Absolutely, and the formal qualities really command attention.