The Young White King between the Queen and Princess of the Feuereisen 1514 - 1516

Leonhard Beck, an artist working in the German Renaissance, created this woodcut titled "The Young White King between the Queen and Princess of the Feuereisen." Reflect on what it meant to be a ruler in the 16th century. Beck invites us into a space of royal privilege and power, where the very act of dining becomes a staged performance of sovereignty. Yet, this image isn't merely a neutral depiction of wealth; it’s carefully designed to project an image of authority. Consider the armor worn at the table, a subtle yet powerful indication that even in times of peace, the ruler must always be ready to defend his realm. The presence of women—the Queen and Princess—serves as a potent symbol of lineage and succession. The artist seems to ask: what price does one pay for power, and how do the roles we inherit shape our very identities? This piece is more than just an historical record; it is an exploration of how power and identity are constructed, performed, and perceived.