Theuerdank Defeats Another Hostile Knight 1517

Editor: This is a woodcut print by Leonhard Beck, dating back to the early 16th century, titled "Theuerdank Defeats Another Hostile Knight." It’s a very detailed, small-scale battle scene. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Theuerdank was commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I, casting him as a heroic figure. But how does this narrative serve power? Consider the ways in which idealized images of rulers legitimize authority and perpetuate specific power structures. Who is left out of this heroic narrative? Editor: So, you're saying it's not just about a knight winning a battle? Curator: Exactly. It's about constructing a specific image of leadership and dominance. Consider how such images have been used throughout history and their lasting impact on social and political landscapes. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It's important to look critically at the stories art tells and who gets to tell them.