Jost Amman, “To Throw a Harmful Firebomb into a Battle Formation”, 1573

Jost Amman (aka Jost Ammon) (1539–1591)

“To Throw a Harmful Firebomb into a Battle Formation” (Ein schadtlich Feumer in ein Schlachtordnung zu werffen), 1573

Although this siege scene features the use of the customary solid cannonballs (round shot)—visible in the foreground at centre—what makes this image particularly interesting is the depiction of incendiary fire-balls (Feuerballen) being launched at the fortifications. These projectiles consist of a linen or flax pouch tightly bound with twine, filled with a combustible mixture of sulphur, saltpetre, and melted resin. Once a protruding wick is lit, these flaming balls are hurled in a high arc by heavy mortars seen in the foreground, designed to ignite the city’s interior.

Technical Details & Condition:

Woodcut on laid paper with letterpress text on the verso. The image is trimmed with a narrow margin and backed with a support sheet, providing wider margins. This woodcut is from page 148 of the third part of the German military manual, “Kriegsbuch” (War Book), by Leonhard Fronsperger (aka Leonhardt Fronsberger) (c. 1520–1575). It was printed by Martin Lechler (fl. late 1500s) and published in Frankfurt am Main by Sigmund Feyerabend (also known as Sigismund Feyrabend or Sigmund Feierabend) in 1573.

This is a strong, well-printed impression. The sheet is age-toned but otherwise in good condition, with no tears or significant stains.

Dimensions:

• Sheet: 13.3 x 15 cm
• Image borderline: 12.5 x 14.1 cm

References:

• Andresen 226.85v (Andreas Andresen, “Der deutschen Peintre-Graveur oder die deutschen Maler als Kupferstecher, nach ihrem Leben und ihren Werken, von dem letzten Drittel des 16. Jahrhunderts bis zum Schluss des 18. Jahrhunderts”, vol. 1, 1872–78, Leipzig, p. 365, cat. no. 226.85v)
• New Hollstein (German) (Jost Amman) IV.94.76
• British Museum: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/P_1837-0616-23

Price & Shipping:

AU$237 (approximately US$167.20 / €143.57 / £124.93), including worldwide express shipping. Please note: Import duties and taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.

If you’re interested in acquiring this remarkable German woodcut from the late Renaissance, please contact me at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.