Pyrgoteles
anonymous; Hans Wechtlin (I)
c. 1520
Medium
chiaroscuro woodcut
Dimensions
189; 124
About this artwork
height 189 mm x width 124 mm
Art Historical Context
This striking chiaroscuro woodcut, created around 1520, showcases the technical sophistication of early Renaissance printmaking in Germany. Attributed to Hans Wechtlin (also known as Johannes Wechtlin the Elder), or possibly an anonymous artist working in his circle, the print measures just 189 by 124 millimeters yet achieves remarkable depth through layered tones. Wechtlin was among the pioneers of the chiaroscuro technique in northern Europe, using multiple woodblocks—one for the black line work and others for colored tones—to mimic the effects of ink drawings or paintings on toned paper. T...