Benno Raphael Adam (1812-1892), attributedto - Two dogs
No. 88056615
Peter Flötner (1485-1546) - Broadside : Allegory of tyranny, usury and hypocrisy fighting reason and justice
No. 88056615
Peter Flötner (1485-1546) - Broadside : Allegory of tyranny, usury and hypocrisy fighting reason and justice
A circa 1800 impression of a woodcut copy of a broadside of 1525 with text by Hans Sachs from Nürnberg on the exploitation of the common man; showing a group of allegorical figures, with Tyranny, Usury and Hypocrisy fighting Common Sense, Justice and the Word of God.
The original woodcut printed in Nuremberg was formerly attributed to Albrecht Dürer (School of) and nowedays to Peter Flötner (1485-1546). This copy is believed to be done by an anonymous woodcutter in the 17th century. (Reference: Louvre Collections - L 37 LR/337 Recto)
The broadside is a reaction against the German Peasants' War of that year, and shares the strict conservative Protestant line taken by Martin Luther. The peasantry (the donkey) has kicked out Religious Hypocrisy (the mercenary Roman Church) but is ridden by Tyranny (in armour) and Usury (a Jew skinning it alive). Human Reason (in the seductive hat) is not to be trusted, and holds a blindfold before the donkey's eyes, while Justice is locked away in the stocks. The donkey must suffer on this earth, hoping only in the Word of God and the sword of Divine Justice, to be granted to the poor beast only when it has fallen into the grave at its feet. (David Paisey)
This impressive woodcut measures 39,60 x 16,50 and is on a larger sheet with good margins. Condition with moderate age toning is fine.
You might also like
This object was featured in
How to buy on Catawiki
1. Discover something special
2. Place the top bid
3. Make a secure payment