German Joust of Peace c. 1512 - 1515

Editor: So, here we have the "German Joust of Peace," a watercolor drawing from around 1512 to 1515. It's attributed to an anonymous artist. It’s… well, it’s kind of chaotic, isn't it? I’m immediately struck by how the jousters seem to have just collapsed in a tangle. What's your take on it? What story does this artwork tell you? Curator: "Chaos" is a delicious word for it, don’t you think? To me, this isn't just a depiction of a messy joust. It’s a glimpse into the *theatre* of it all. Think about it - the bright, clashing colours in a period mostly rendered in drab tones now, the awkward limbs, the sheer theatricality of armored men falling every which way, it hints at the playful performance, the almost carnivalesque air that a "Joust of Peace" would aspire to evoke. Are they really at war here? I feel like they're flirting with it. What do you think, looking at their positions? Editor: I guess it’s less grim than I initially thought. I see what you mean about the colours. Do you think that "anonymous" artist status adds to it, takes away from it or makes no real difference? Curator: Well, you see, sometimes the greatest whispers come from unknown voices. Knowing the artist might color our perception; here, we are invited to build the narrative, just ourselves. We don't carry the bias that familiarity brings; does that not free you up, personally, when facing the piece? Editor: Absolutely! That really helps me see the piece with fresh eyes. I can really see the vibrant energy here. I hadn't considered the impact of anonymity so deeply before. Thanks!