Anna Muller as donor with her five sons 1599

This stained-glass panel, made by Franz Fallenter, presents Anna Muller and her five sons. The composition is divided into two registers, separated horizontally. In the lower, main register, the figures stand rigidly, their forms delineated by strong outlines. This contrasts with the upper register, which depicts scenes of labor. Notice the formal structure here. The contrast in scale and detail guides our eye to interpret the figures as static portraits. This implies a hierarchy of labor performed versus the status of the family within society. The use of line and the monochromatic palette gives the piece a graphic quality, almost like a print. In the context of the 17th century, this stained glass operates as a symbol, reflecting societal values around class. The form of the artwork, with its structured composition, mirrors the structured nature of social class.