Open full image Pin

The Death of Priam

Michael Lukas Leopold Willmann

1660

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Allegory

Dominant colour

The Death of Priam is a 1660 ink by Michael Lukas Leopold Willmann, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Michael Lukas Leopold Willmann
When & what style?: 1660 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a chaotic scene with five figures in a rocky, shadowy space. One man on the left kneels, reaching out toward a fallen warrior in the center, who’s surrounded by others—some standing, some kneeling, all tangled in dramatic poses. The lines are loose and hurried, with dark ink and quick strokes that make the scene feel urgent. The artist used only pen and ink, layering lines to create depth and emotion. This style was common in Baroque art, where drama and movement were key. Next, check out Baroque to see how this fits into the bigger picture.