Sebald Beham

Beham, Hans Sebald
German, 1500 - 1550

Explore selected works

See all 242 works of art
This is a drawing of a classical figure surrounded by cherubic forms and symbols. The central figure is depicted with a winged helmet and a staff known as a caduceus. This character stands prominently with a majestic posture, blowing a horn or similar instrument. Two smaller, cherubic beings accompany the figure — one to the left with a mythical half-fish and half-human form holding a flower and a small caduceus, while the other to the right embraces another child-like figure. They all float amidst stylized clouds. Above the main figure, a banner unfurls with the inscription "MERCVRIVS," and below is written “MERCATORVM FAVTOR."
Sebald Beham, Mercury, c. 1570/1598, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1140

Mercury

Sebald Beham · c. 1570/1598 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1140
This is a drawing of a triumphal procession. The image depicts a classical-style procession with figures, horses, and a chariot. The figures are adorned in draped garments typical of ancient Roman or Greek styles, and they are engaged in a parade scene. The chariot is elaborately designed with curved lines and decorated wheels, and there are decorative elements such as lit torches carried by the figures. The horses appear dynamic. Above the procession, there is an inscription. The drawing is executed with intricate linework.
Sebald Beham, Triumphal Procession of the Noble Glorious Women, 1549, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1076

Triumphal Procession of the Noble Glorious Women

Sebald Beham · 1549 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1076
The image shows a person sitting with a child standing next to them. The person has distinct facial features, long hair, and wears flowing clothing with voluminous sleeves. The child has curly hair and holds a bird in their hand. The person holds an apple close to the child. In the background, there is a tree with bare branches and a castle or large building labeled "S. MARIA."
Sebald Beham, The Virgin and Child with a Parrot, 1549, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1170

The Virgin and Child with a Parrot

Sebald Beham · 1549 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1170
The image depicts a muscular man pulling on a tree while in an active stance. He has a pronounced beard and curly hair, and is minimally clothed. The background shows a natural setting with trees, foliage, and rocks. The word "IMPOSSIBILE" is inscribed on a branch in the image.
Sebald Beham, The Impossible, 1549, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1078

The Impossible

Sebald Beham · 1549 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1078
This is a drawing of two figures in a mythological scene. One figure is on the ground surrounded by flames and smoke. The second figure stands to the right holding a staff, shield, and club. The environment includes rugged terrain, jagged rocks, buildings across a body of water, and dense clouds in the sky. The drawing features detailed linework and an inscription at the top.
Sebald Beham, Death of Hercules, 1548, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.9332

Death of Hercules

Sebald Beham · 1548 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.9332
This is a drawing of a muscular figure fighting a lion. The background features classical architecture and trees with twisted branches, along with objects like a spear and shield against a tree trunk. The details in the drawing emphasize muscle tone and intricate patterns in the landscape and architecture.
Sebald Beham, Hercules Killing the Nemean Lion, 1548, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.9331

Hercules Killing the Nemean Lion

Sebald Beham · 1548 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.9331
This is a drawing of a nude figure interacting with a swan in a natural setting. The image depicts a seated, nude figure beside a swan, set in an outdoor scene with trees and, in the background, a detailed depiction of a castle or large building structure. The figure is positioned to the right, with flowing hair, and appears to be engaged with the swan, with an arm draped around it. The swan has its long neck arched elegantly. The detailed line work and shading provide depth and texture to the figures and the environment, demonstrating skilled draftsmanship. The scene is surrounded by natural elements and an architectural structure on the horizon. The style is reminiscent of Renaissance engraving techniques.
Sebald Beham, Leda and the Swan, 1548, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1060

Leda and the Swan

Sebald Beham · 1548 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1060
The artwork is a detailed engraving depicting a scene with three women in a bathroom. The composition is tightly arranged, with the figures occupying the foreground. The woman on the left is standing on a step, raising her arm, with her body slightly turned. Another woman, seated in the center, reaches out to touch her, while the third woman stands behind, her hand on the seated woman's shoulder. All three are nude, with the two on the right wearing caps. The background features wooden paneling and a window with a grid-like pattern. A small bucket is placed in the lower right corner, and the date "1548" along with the initials "ISB" are inscribed in the upper right. The piece is rendered with fine lines and shading, typical of the engraving technique.
Sebald Beham, Three Women in a Bathroom, 1548, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1092

Three Women in a Bathroom

Sebald Beham · 1548 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1092
The artwork is a vertical engraving depicting a nude female figure and a skeletal figure. The female stands in the center, her body facing forward with wings extending from her back. Her expression is neutral, and her hair is curly and unadorned. The skeletal figure stands closely behind her, with one bony arm around her shoulder and the other hand gently touching her face. The skeletal figure also has wings, and its skull is turned towards the woman. A stone pillar with engraved text is situated to the right, while an hourglass lies on the ground in the foreground. In the background, a landscape with buildings and trees is visible. The engraving is detailed with intricate line work, capturing the textures of skin, bone, and feathers.
Sebald Beham, Death and the Maiden, 1547, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.1080

Death and the Maiden

Sebald Beham · 1547 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1943.3.1080
This is a drawing of a battle scene. The artwork shows four figures fighting in a rural setting, with a vineyard in the background. Each figure is armed with weapons like swords and a club. The characters are detailed, with expressive gestures and muscular anatomy. A banner with script is above them. The artwork features intricate line work and shading for a dramatic effect.
Sebald Beham, Peasants' Brawl, 1547, engraving, Rosenwald Collection, 1963.11.24

Peasants' Brawl

Sebald Beham · 1547 · engraving ·  Accession ID  1963.11.24