The Weisskunig (White King) was one of three books commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519). The book chronicles Maximilian’s (the Whilte King) life and represents his court as an ideal chivalric society. The book remained unfinished at Maximilian's death but proofs survive. There were 236 illustrations planned, with painter Hans Burgkmair, Maximilian's chief designer from 1508, designing about half of them. The first part describes how the young Wihte King easily learns all the arts and crafts. Here he shows his talent (ingenium) in the art of painting. Hans Burgkmair has portrayed himself in the figure of the painter at the easel.