The Standard Bearer, Turned to Left 1587

"The Standard Bearer, Turned to Left" is an engraving by Hendrick Goltzius, a prominent Dutch artist from the late 16th century. The print, created in 1587, depicts a soldier in a dramatic pose, his body contorted as he holds a standard, his right foot firmly planted on a rocky outcrop. The figure's muscular anatomy and flowing drapery are rendered with meticulous detail, demonstrating Goltzius' mastery of the engraving technique. The composition is dynamic, with the soldier seemingly moving forward while simultaneously looking back, conveying a sense of energy and tension. The background landscape, featuring a distant city and marching soldiers, further emphasizes the sense of military action. This artwork showcases Goltzius' signature style, characterized by expressive figures and detailed renderings, and it serves as a fine example of the high artistic standards of the Dutch Golden Age.