The First Four Trombones, from The Apocalypse

Art Historical Context

Step into the dramatic world of the Renaissance with *The First Four Tromb, from The Apocalypse*, a captivating woodcut created by Hans Burgkma in collaboration with Silvan Otmar around 1523–24. This small yet powerful print (6 3/8 × 5 1/8 in.) hails from a series inspired by the Book of Revelation in the Bible, capturing the awe-inspiring moment when the first four angels sound their trombones—early precursors to the modern trombone, known then as sackbuts—to herald apocalyptic events. Burgkmair, a master of the German Renaissance and a pioneer in color woodcuts, worked in Augsburg during a time of religious upheaval, including the early Protestant Reformation. As a woodcut, this print exemplifies the medium's revolutionary potential: carved into wood blocks and hand-pulled on paper, it allowed for affordable, widespread dissemination of complex imagery to everyday audiences. Burgkmair's intricate line work and dynamic compositions brought biblical prophecy to life, blending Northern Renaissance detail with expressive drama. Held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Elisha Whittelsey Collection, it reflects the era's fusion of artistry and faith, making divine visions accessible beyond church walls. Imagine the thunderous call of those trombones echoing through 16th-century homes—this print not only illustrates scripture but invites viewers to ponder humanity's place in cosmic events, a timeless reminder of art's role in spiritual storytelling.

About the Artist

Hans Burgkmair|Silvan Otmar · 1473–1531

Hans Burgkmair the Elder (1473–1531) was a German painter and printmaker who became one of the leading artists of the Renaissance in Augsburg. Born into a family of painters — his father, Thoman Burgkmair, was a respected artist — he likely received his initial training in his father's workshop. He may also have studied with Martin Schongauer in Colmar, and a probable visit to Italy around 1507 ex...