The Age of Iron
1589
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1589
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Age of Iron is a 1589 ink by Hendrik Goltzius, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
The painting shows a large figure standing on a cannon, holding a sword and other weapons. This figure is surrounded by smaller characters doing different things. The scene is set in a dramatic landscape with a castle and clouds, which adds to the story. The smaller characters around the central figure are engaged in activities like fighting and running. This suggests a sense of chaos and conflict, which is a key part of the painting's message. You can learn more about this style by looking at the technique: engraving.
