Artwork
Man with Sword
Man with Sword is an ink print by the Baroque artist Edouard Eckman. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Edouard Eckman’s 1621 woodcut, titled Man with Sword, presents a solitary figure in motion. Rendered on laid paper, the print captures a dynamic stance: the subject leans forward, his left leg bent while the right leg extends, suggesting swift movement.
Subject & Meaning
The central figure is a man dressed in a long coat and cloak, topped with a feather‑adorned hat. He grips a sword in his right hand, his expression serious, conveying a sense of readiness or confrontation. The composition emphasizes the energy of a moment frozen in time.
Technique & Style
Executed as a woodcut, the image relies on the grain of the laid paper to enhance texture and depth. Eckman’s carving creates clear contrasts between the dark silhouette of the figure and the lighter background, allowing the details of clothing and posture to stand out.
History & Provenance
Created in 1621, the print is attributed to the German artist Edouard Eckman, known for his work in early 17th‑century printmaking. The piece remains an example of the period’s woodcut practice, though specific ownership records beyond its authorship are not documented.
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