The Knight of Men 1463

Master ES created this engraving, "The Knight of Men," during the mid-15th century, a period defined by strict social hierarchies and the rise of Humanism. The artwork depicts a knight on horseback, seemingly in conversation with a figure above him who is brandishing a lance. In the late Middle Ages, chivalry defined aristocratic masculinity, emphasizing military prowess, honor, and courtly manners. Yet, by this time, such codes were increasingly seen as outdated. The knight’s elaborate costume, complete with pointed shoes, speaks to the vanity and ostentation that religious reformers criticized among the aristocracy. The figure of the lancer could be read as both the subject of the knight’s address and also the object of his hubris. Master ES uses precise lines and attention to detail to underscore a sense of social tension, inviting viewers to reflect on the shifting dynamics of power and morality. "The Knight of Men" captures a pivotal moment of cultural transition, inviting reflection on the values and virtues society chooses to uphold.