Satire on the Papacy 1555

"Satire on the Papacy" is a 1555 engraving by Melchior Lorck, a German Renaissance artist. This satirical work depicts two figures: a Pope on the left and a Turk on the right. The Pope wears a triple crown and holds a staff topped with a serpent and a cross, symbolizing his religious authority. The Turk, who is likely meant to represent the Ottoman Empire, has an extravagant headdress and holds a spear with a feather-like decoration. The artwork's focus on religious and political themes, and its satirical treatment of both the Pope and the Turk, highlights the artistic trends and anxieties of the era, particularly the clash of religions and political powers.