Saint Mark 

This engraving of Saint Mark was made by Johann Ladenspelder, a German artist, around the mid-16th century. Look closely and you’ll see Saint Mark is depicted with his traditional symbol, the lion. The image presents an interesting take on religious authority. The Latin inscription translates to "No prophet is accepted in his own country". This phrase, taken from the Gospels, speaks to a tension between divine inspiration and earthly recognition. Ladenspelder made this artwork during the Reformation. The Reformation challenged the established church and promoted individual interpretation of the Bible. Ladenspelder’s Mark embodies this shift. He’s not a distant figure, but a relatable scholar. This artwork reflects the changing attitudes toward religion and the rise of individual conscience. Further research into the religious and political context of 16th-century Germany helps us understand the artwork's subtle but powerful message.