Wolkenstein, Oswald von (c. 1377–1445)

Austrian Minnesinger and politician. He travelled much, reputedly even as far as Asia and Africa. From 1415 he was in the service of King (later Emperor) Sigismund and was sent to Spain and Portugal on diplomatic missions. In 1421–27 he involved himself in much strife and was twice imprisoned in his endeavour to extend his land by encroaching on that of his neighbours. Although he sang of courtly love, he enjoyed a long adulterous affair.

Works songs on themes such as love, spring, and travel, for one–three voices (to his own words).