“Five Lansquenets and an Oriental on Horseback” is an artwork by Albrecht Dürer, dated to 1495. The medium of this piece is oil on canvas. It belongs to the Northern Renaissance art movement and is considered a genre painting. As of the last known information, the painting resides in a private collection.
The artwork depicts six figures: five lansquenets, who were German mercenary foot soldiers, and an individual described as an “Oriental” on horseback, which refers to a person from the eastern parts of the world according to the terminology of that era. The scene showcases a rich array of attire that signifies different cultural backgrounds, offering a snapshot of the fascinating blend of people during that time. Each figure is carefully detailed, revealing the unique clothing, weaponry, and accessories that are characteristic of their respective roles and origins.
The lansquenets are shown standing on the ground with various poses and expressions, clad in attire that highlights the fashion of the time with puffed sleeves, hose, and hats adorned with feathers. Their weaponry includes halberds and swords, hinting at their military vocation. The oriental figure is mounted on a horse and is depicted with a turban, suggesting his eastern heritage. This individual carries a long spear, adding to the martial theme of the group. The setting is understated, possibly a countryside, which allows the focus to remain on the figures themselves.
Dürer’s skilled etching captures the textures and folds of the fabrics, the intricate designs of the armors and clothing, and the varied expressions on the characters’ faces, conveying a sense of narrative and personality. His monogram “AD” is visible at the bottom of the artwork, indicating his authorship. The meticulous details and composition reflect the Northern Renaissance emphasis on realism and individual detail.
