Conrad Celtis

Above the sitter, a decorative banner unfurls containing Latin inscriptions, while small putti or angels emerge from the sides, framing the central figure.

Created in 1507 by Hans Burgkmair I, this woodcut is a portrait of the German humanist Conrad Celtis. The composition depicts Celtis seated at a desk, dressed in a heavy, fur-lined robe that signifies his scholarly status and wealth. He is surrounded by the tools of his trade: scattered papers, open books, and writing implements, emphasizing his role as a prolific writer and poet.

At his feet rests a small dog, a traditional symbol of loyalty and fidelity often included in portraits of the era. Above the sitter, a decorative banner unfurls containing Latin inscriptions, while small putti or angels emerge from the sides, framing the central figure. The work is executed in the medium of woodcut, utilizing Burgkmair's characteristic bold lines and cross-hatching to create depth and texture within the monochromatic format.

This print was produced during the height of the German Renaissance, serving as a visual testament to Celtis's prominence as the first Poet Laureate of the Holy Roman Empire. It stands as a significant example of Burgkmair's portraiture, capturing the intellectual spirit of the humanist movement in early 16th-century Germany.