Hohenasperg siege by Georg von Frundsberg in war of Swabian federal versus Herzog Ulrich 1519

Albrecht Dürer made this drawing of the Siege of Hohenasperg in 1519. Here, we see more than just a depiction of war, but also a visual document reflecting the complex social and political landscape of the early 16th century. Dürer’s detailed rendering offers a bird’s-eye view of the siege, complete with fortifications, cannons, and troop movements, that gives a sense of the scale of early modern warfare. Produced during a time of religious reformation and social upheaval in Germany, this image is a visual record of the power struggles and conflicts that defined the era. The war itself was between the Swabian League and Duke Ulrich of Württemberg, reflecting regional tensions within the fragmented Holy Roman Empire. Dürer, an active citizen, shows us the impact of his culture on this work by capturing this important moment in German history. By studying such artworks, and looking at other resources from the time, like military records, we can gain a richer understanding of the relationship between art and society.