Landsknecht (Mercenary) with Standard
Reproduction print, likely a mechanical transfer or modern photolithograph on a non-paper substrate (plastic, laminate, or coated board) • After Hans Holbein the Younger or the circle of Lucas Cranach (stylistic attribution). Not Bartolomeo Manfredi, whose work was Baroque/Caravaggesque oil painting.
Style & Movement
Northern Renaissance Revival (specifically German Landsknecht iconography)
Medium & Technique
Simulated woodcut style using modern printing ink. The design mimics the bold, linear hatchings of 16th-century German relief printing (Xylography).
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (modern reproduction)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches; Portrait format with a white border
Subject Description
A German Landsknecht (mercenary) stands in a heroic pose, carrying a standard or flag over his shoulder. He wears characteristic puffed and slashed clothing and a plumed hat. In the background, a fortified European city and rolling hills represent a typical 16th-century landscape setting.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; appears stable with no visible signs of aging typical of antique prints.
Estimated Market Value
USD 10.00 – USD 30.00
Auction Estimate
USD 5.00 – USD 20.00 (primarily as a decorative object)
Provenance History
Unknown; likely purchased as a contemporary decorative item or educational reproduction.
Art Historical Significance
The image is a classic example of Landsknecht imagery popularized by artists like Dürer and Holbein, which signaled military pride and social status in the Holy Roman Empire. However, as a modern reproduction, its significance is decorative rather than historical.
Notable Features
The visual style is distinctively 'woodcut,' characterized by thick black lines. The attribution provided by the owner (Manfredi/copper plate) is incorrect, as this is neither a Baroque painting style nor an intaglio/metal-plate etching.
Condition Issues
None visible; the surface is extremely uniform and lacking the foxing, plate marks, or deckled edges found in period works.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent ink fading. Minimal conservation is required as it is a modern material.
Collector Notes
Bartolomeo Manfredi copper plate print, most definitely not on papsr