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Standard-Bearer for the Canton of Bern

Urs Graf I

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a person wearing armor holding a flag with a bear on it, standing on a floral pattern. The image depicts a figure with exaggerated musculature, adorned in a suit of armor, and grasping a flag pole. The flag features a large bear, which appears prominent on the fabric. Beneath the bear is a smaller, ornate scene. The word "BERN" is inscribed alongside an elaborate, decorative flourish beneath the figure, which is positioned amidst intricate floral motifs in the background. The style of the artwork is characteristic of woodcut printmaking, highlighting strong contrasts and detailed line work.

Artwork Details

Date
1521
Medium
white-line woodcut on laid paper
Dimensions
4294 × 7484 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original