Portret van Joachim Ernst von Brandenburg-Ansbach 1620

Lucas Kilian's "Portret van Joachim Ernst von Brandenburg-Ansbach" from 1620, is a fine example of an engraved portrait. The print depicts Joachim Ernst, a prince of the Holy Roman Empire, in a detailed, ornate oval frame. It is framed by a coat of arms, military equipment, and the Latin phrase "Invia virtuti nulla via" (No path is impassable to virtue), referencing the prince's valiant character. This small but meticulously rendered engraving speaks to the popularity of portraiture during the Baroque period, showcasing the importance of visual representation for the elite.