Standard Bearer 1500 - 1530

Urs Graf made this red chalk drawing, "Standard Bearer," sometime in the early 16th century. Graf lived in a society deeply shaped by its military culture, where young men were often glorified for their roles in armed conflicts. In this small but mighty drawing, Graf captures a soldier in full regalia. But look closer, and you'll notice the landscape at his feet – a subtle reminder of the earth, from which all human endeavor springs. The soldier's gaze is fixed, a mixture of determination and perhaps a hint of anxiety in his eyes. Graf himself was no stranger to conflict, known for his involvement in various military campaigns. His personal life, marked by tumultuous relationships and disputes, mirrors the uncertainties of his time. This work feels emotionally complex, a mix of pride, duty, and the ever-present shadow of violence. It is an exploration of the tensions between identity, society, and the human cost of conflict.