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Hendrick Goltzius

The Standard Bearer, Turned to Left

1587
Engraving in black on ivory laid paper
27.3 × 19.1 cm (10.7 × 7.5 in)

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Part of a long and honorable tradition (which dates back to the engravings of Albrecht Dürer) of depicting illustrious standard-bearers in full armor or fancy dress, this image by Hendrik Goltzius is notable for its elegance, virtuosity, and bravura. The inscription at the bottom of the engraving declares that when the standard-bearer advances, the troops advance; when he flees, they flee.

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