Who painted Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear?

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear was painted by Hendrik Goltzius in 1586.

Where can I see Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear?

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear?

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear

Hendrik Goltzius , 1586

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Hendrik Goltzius. It dates from 1586 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Look up more works in the subject: netherlands, haarlem, 16th century to see how artists of this time brought soldiers to life.

A soldier stands tall, spear in hand, sword at his hip. His hat flutters with feathers, and a scarf dances in the wind. Behind him, tiny scenes show battles and marching troops.

This isn’t just a portrait—it’s a practice sketch for a set of prints. Goltzius drew it to test poses and details before carving them into metal. The lines are sharp, almost like engraving itself.

Look up more works in the subject: netherlands, haarlem, 16th century to see how artists of this time brought soldiers to life.

Overview

Standing Officer Holding a Boar's Spear is a drawing by Hendrick Goltzius, created as a preparatory study for a series of engravings depicting military figures.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a military officer standing confidently, holding a spear and wearing a sword. The background scenes of battles and troops convey militaristic values such as bravery, relevant to the Netherlands' ongoing conflict with Spain during the late 16th century.

Technique & Style

Goltzius employed a range of techniques, including fine pen strokes, delicate brown washes, and red chalk additions to the face and hands, achieving a naturalistic effect.

History & Provenance

The drawing was made between 1582 and 1600, a period during which Goltzius designed a significant group of engravings featuring military figures.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hendrik Goltzius

Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.