Box For Crossbow Bolts (<i>Bolzenkasten</i>), Probably Made for William IV, Duke of Bavaria (r. 1508–50) 1539

Crafted by Hans Wagner the Elder, this *Box for Crossbow Bolts*, likely for Duke William IV of Bavaria, presents a striking contrast with its dark wood and delicate ivory inlay. The box displays intricate battle scenes and mythological figures arranged in a frieze-like manner. Consider the lid: The linear perspective, though somewhat flattened, draws the eye across the expanse of conflict, creating a dynamic sense of movement. The arrangement of figures and structures suggests a hierarchy, emphasizing the Duke's power through visual narrative. Around the sides of the box, observe the play of sinuous lines and curvilinear forms depicting mythological figures. This is contained within the rigid geometry of the box. The tension between the box’s form and the decoration invites us to consider the interplay between order and chaos, control and narrative. This piece becomes a cultural artifact reflecting the values and aesthetics of its time. It operates within a larger discourse about power, representation, and the function of art within courtly life. The box offers a complex visual experience that continues to invite interpretation.