Shield King: A Man Astride a Snail 1712 - 1730

"Shield King: A Man Astride a Snail," is an etching by Johannes Brandenberg, a German artist known for his satirical prints. Created between 1712 and 1730, this small work depicts a man in 18th-century attire, wielding a sword, and riding a snail. This humorous image likely satirizes the slow pace of progress or the absurdity of human ambition, making it a commentary on the social and political climate of Brandenberg’s time. The piece’s playful and symbolic nature adds to its charm and makes it a unique example of satirical art.