Master of the Playing Cards

German, active c. 1430/1455

Explore selected works

Printed with fine black lines on cream-white paper, a man wearing a knee-length tunic and reading from a piece of unfolded paper faces our right against a mostly blank background in this vertical engraving. The man's right shoulder, closer to us, is angled in a way that suggests his torso is turned slightly away from us even though his feet and face are shown in profile. A narrow wreath is almost lost in his dense curls, and he has a straight nose and prominent chin. His fur-lined tunic is belted low across his hips, and a dagger hangs from his belt. His pointed clog-like shoes seem to slip onto his feet like sandals, and he stands on a grassy field in an otherwise empty space. Creases in the paper he holds suggests it had been folded into nine sections.
Master of the Playing Cards, A Poet Reading, 1430s, engraving on laid paper, Gift of Ladislaus and Beatrix von Hoffmann, 1999.26.1

A Poet Reading

Master of the Playing Cards · 1430s · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1999.26.1
The artwork is a vertical, monochrome engraving featuring an intricate vine ornament with two birds. The composition is framed by a thin border, encapsulating a network of entwined vines and stylized flowers. The birds are positioned amidst the foliage; one bird is perched on a vine, while the other is in flight, both integrated into the pattern. The vines and flowers are detailed with fine lines, creating movement and texture. The background is plain, highlighting the design of the vines and birds.
German 15th Century, Vine Ornament with Two Birds, c. 1440/1450, engraving on laid paper, Rosenwald Collection, 1950.17.206

Vine Ornament with Two Birds

German 15th Century · c. 1440/1450 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1950.17.206
This is a drawing of a gothic architectural setting. The drawing includes a central figure surrounded by several other figures. The scene takes place within a structure resembling a medieval or gothic building with arched elements and pillar designs. The figures are depicted in a style typical of late medieval manuscript illustrations, focusing on linear details such as robes and facial expressions. The scene features a checkered floor and architectural elements reminiscent of a palace or grand hall. The figures appear to be interacting, with one central seated figure being approached by others holding sticks or rods. The drawing uses strong outlines and hatching to convey depth and form.
German 15th Century, The Crowning with Thorns, c. 1440/1450, engraving on laid paper, Rosenwald Collection, 1943.3.5835

The Crowning with Thorns

German 15th Century · c. 1440/1450 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1943.3.5835