Landsknecht 1562

François Desprez’s “Landsknecht” is a 1562 woodcut depicting a Landsknecht, a type of German mercenary soldier. Dressed in ornate armor, he holds a halberd and displays a proud stance, exemplifying the Landsknechts' reputation for bravado and fearlessness. Desprez's work, characterized by detailed linework and shading, captures the intricate details of the soldier's attire and weapon, demonstrating the artistic prowess of the Renaissance era. The text below the image likely provides a satirical commentary on the Landsknechts, hinting at their reputation for being both flamboyant and prone to violence. The woodcut’s small size, measuring 146 mm by 85 mm, suggests it was likely intended for personal or private collections, rather than public display.