A new day dawns in 1539 in Zurich, the cradle of Swiss-German artist Jost Amman, whose name was often heard in Latin tongues as Jodocus Amman. From the pen of this gifted copper etcher, mold cutter, and painter gushed not only exquisite illustrations and richly detailed works of art, but also profound books that illustrate his unwavering commitment to the arts.
Under the paternal influence of the Protestant clergyman Johann Jakob Ammann, the young Amman found his way to Nuremberg in 1561, driven by the prospect of Virgil Solis collaboration. But the sudden passing of his mentor just a year later shook the artistic community of Nuremberg, leaving a gaping hole in its midst. But amidst the artistic vacuum, Amman began to grow and thrive, devoting himself to the tools and techniques of the trade bequeathed to him by Solis' workshop. In time, he attained citizenship of the city, an honor he retained until his death in 1591.
Amman was considered one of the most important draftsmen and form cutters of his time, a designation reflected in the incomparable beauty of his work. He created an impressive series of books with woodcuts that covered a wide range of subjects, from genealogical books and tournament books to books of medicine and midwifery. He also illustrated editions of the Bible, ancient and contemporary works, and non-fiction books on religious and historical subjects. His woodcuts were characterized by an elegant slenderness of figures that seemed a bit mannered, but nevertheless captivated with detailed observations and depictions that were close to everyday life. Amman left behind not only an extensive artistic oeuvre, but also a contribution to the cultural-historical knowledge of his time. His illustrations and art prints open a window to bygone eras by depicting occupations, costumes, and everyday scenes in a lively and authentic manner. Furthermore, he created detailed drawings for stained glass and architectural details, such as for the Neubaukirche, the University Church of Würzburg.
His works, which can be found today in the perfectly formed art prints in our collection, are an expression of his dedication to the craft and his ability to weave art and everyday life in a unique way. The fine lines that run through each art print are not only an expression of Amman's masterful technique, but also a testament to his contribution to art history and his unparalleled ability to view his world through the lens of art. In doing so, his works reveal an unparalleled skill in portraying character and mood, reflected in every detail. Moreover, his writings on art technique and theory reveal an artist who was not only capable of creating extraordinary works, but also of putting into words and passing on his understanding of art and craft.
A new day dawns in 1539 in Zurich, the cradle of Swiss-German artist Jost Amman, whose name was often heard in Latin tongues as Jodocus Amman. From the pen of this gifted copper etcher, mold cutter, and painter gushed not only exquisite illustrations and richly detailed works of art, but also profound books that illustrate his unwavering commitment to the arts.
Under the paternal influence of the Protestant clergyman Johann Jakob Ammann, the young Amman found his way to Nuremberg in 1561, driven by the prospect of Virgil Solis collaboration. But the sudden passing of his mentor just a year later shook the artistic community of Nuremberg, leaving a gaping hole in its midst. But amidst the artistic vacuum, Amman began to grow and thrive, devoting himself to the tools and techniques of the trade bequeathed to him by Solis' workshop. In time, he attained citizenship of the city, an honor he retained until his death in 1591.
Amman was considered one of the most important draftsmen and form cutters of his time, a designation reflected in the incomparable beauty of his work. He created an impressive series of books with woodcuts that covered a wide range of subjects, from genealogical books and tournament books to books of medicine and midwifery. He also illustrated editions of the Bible, ancient and contemporary works, and non-fiction books on religious and historical subjects. His woodcuts were characterized by an elegant slenderness of figures that seemed a bit mannered, but nevertheless captivated with detailed observations and depictions that were close to everyday life. Amman left behind not only an extensive artistic oeuvre, but also a contribution to the cultural-historical knowledge of his time. His illustrations and art prints open a window to bygone eras by depicting occupations, costumes, and everyday scenes in a lively and authentic manner. Furthermore, he created detailed drawings for stained glass and architectural details, such as for the Neubaukirche, the University Church of Würzburg.
His works, which can be found today in the perfectly formed art prints in our collection, are an expression of his dedication to the craft and his ability to weave art and everyday life in a unique way. The fine lines that run through each art print are not only an expression of Amman's masterful technique, but also a testament to his contribution to art history and his unparalleled ability to view his world through the lens of art. In doing so, his works reveal an unparalleled skill in portraying character and mood, reflected in every detail. Moreover, his writings on art technique and theory reveal an artist who was not only capable of creating extraordinary works, but also of putting into words and passing on his understanding of art and craft.
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