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Milites Requiescentes (Soldiers at Rest), by Lucas van Doetechum, ink, 1556

Milites Requiescentes (Soldiers at Rest)

Lucas van Doetechum

1556

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Milites Requiescentes (Soldiers at Rest) is a 1556 ink by Lucas van Doetechum, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Lucas van Doetechum
When & what style?
1556 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This print shows a busy forest scene with soldiers resting under a big tree. In the foreground, some men are sitting, talking, or sleeping on the ground. Others stand or walk around, while a few figures are gathered near a small fire. Farther back, you can see a village, a river, and distant hills with castles or ruins. The title *Milites Requiescentes* means "Soldiers at Rest," but the scene is packed with tiny details—like the village, the river, and the far-off buildings—that hint at a bigger story. The artist used lines to create depth, making the scene feel alive despite being black and white. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.

About the artist

More by Lucas van Doetechum

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