Who painted The King of Cochin?

The King of Cochin was painted by Hans Burgkmair the Elder in 1512.

Where can I see The King of Cochin?

The King of Cochin is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

The King of Cochin

The King of Cochin is a print by Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1512 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Created around 1512, this woodcut by the German artist Hans Burgkmair is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The overall mood of the image is one of energy and movement, with the men seeming to be engaged in some kind of activity or celebration.

The image depicts a group of men, some of whom are playing musical instruments or carrying objects. The men are dressed in loincloths and appear to be in motion, with some of them walking or running. In the background, there is a figure sitting on a platform, holding an umbrella.

The scene is rendered in a detailed and realistic style, with attention paid to the textures and folds of the men's clothing. The overall mood of the image is one of energy and movement, with the men seeming to be engaged in some kind of activity or celebration.

To learn more about the artist who created this image, look up Hans Burgkmair (German, 1473–1531).

Overview

Created around 1512, this woodcut by the German artist Hans Burgkmair is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. The print portrays a lively gathering of men in motion, some playing instruments or bearing objects, while a seated figure on a platform holds an umbrella. The composition conveys a sense of festivity and activity.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows several male figures clad in simple loincloths, engaged in what appears to be a celebratory or ritual procession. Musical performance, carrying of items, and the presence of an umbrella‑bearing figure suggest a communal event, possibly a courtly or ceremonial occasion linked to the titular King of Cochin.

Technique & Style

Burgkmair employs the detailed line work characteristic of early 16th‑century German printmaking. Fine hatching renders the texture of fabric folds and the musculature of the figures, while the composition balances dynamic movement with a clear spatial hierarchy. The realistic rendering of anatomy and clothing reflects the artist’s interest in naturalistic detail.

History & Provenance

The print was produced in the early Renaissance period, a time when Burgkmair was active in Augsburg and known for his innovations in woodcut design. It entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the 20th century, where it remains a representative example of Burgkmair’s print output.