Johannes Brandenberg

Johannes Brandenberg was an artist documented as being active in 1712. His verifiable body of work consists of a small corpus of figurative drawings, suggesting an artistic practice centered on allegorical or slightly satirical narrative subjects often employing human figures and animals in unusual compositions.

Six drawings by Johannes Brandenberg are preserved in museum collections, establishing his presence in the early eighteenth century art landscape. These works are notably held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The represented works include detailed renderings titled Acorn King: A Man Astride a Cow, Acorn Knave: A Man Astride a Swine, and Rose King: A Man Astride a Fox. The collection also includes the related drawings Shell King: A Man with a Map of a Fortification and Shield King: A Man Astride a Snail.

The concise documentation of Johannes Brandenberg’s output means his works serve as important historical references for early 18th century drawing styles. Today, as many historical examples enter the public domain, enthusiasts can find high-quality prints of his limited known output.