Allegorische voorstelling met hellebaardier, schildknaap en vrouw Possibly 1562 - 1565

This pen and brown ink drawing, made in the 16th century by Monogrammist AM, presents an allegorical scene with a halberdier, a squire, and a woman. The artist skillfully balances the composition, using line and form to define each figure and their symbolic roles. The hatching creates tonal variations that lend depth to the scene. The halberdier, centrally positioned, stands as a figure of strength, contrasted by the more ornamental squire and the burdened woman. The artist employs a semiotic language where objects like the halberd, falcon, and rooster, function as signs. These elements interact within a complex interplay of power and servitude, suggesting a structured hierarchy. Notice how the artist uses line to define the textures of armor and clothing, creating a visual contrast. This highlights the inherent structural relationships between the characters. The drawing challenges us to decode the historical and cultural context embedded within its visual elements. This artwork is not just an aesthetic object, but a site of ongoing interpretation.