1543
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Coat of Arms with a Cock is a 1543 ink by Sebald Beham, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This black-and-white print shows two roosters standing on a shield with a crown on top. Around them are fancy scrolls, leaves, and a banner with letters. The roosters look alert, and the whole scene is packed into a tight, detailed frame. The artist used lines to create shadows and texture, making the feathers and leaves look almost real. This style was common in prints back then. The print was made in 1543, and the artist signed it with a small mark. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this one carved their designs into metal.
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
See the richer artist page
