Italian Joust of Peace c. 1512 - 1515

This drawing, of an Italian Joust of Peace, was made by an anonymous artist using ink and watercolor on paper. The artist has used a light hand with the watercolor, allowing the texture of the paper to show through. In doing so, they've rendered the scene with clarity and precision. Notice the sharp lines of the lances and the subtle shading used to define the forms of the armored figures and horses. The artist pays close attention to the materials and textures of the participants' armors, and in doing so, reveals the labor and resources required to outfit a knight for combat, even in a staged setting. The rendering of the scene invites us to consider the social and economic context of the event. Ultimately, this drawing serves as a reminder of the intersection between art, craft, and social life. By paying attention to the materials and making of the drawing itself, and the way these material details illuminate aspects of the depicted scene, we can gain a richer understanding of its cultural significance.