Christoffer af Bayern 1646

This print of Christoffer af Bayern was made by an anonymous artist. This image creates meaning through its display of power. We see Christoffer adorned with a crown, armor, and a fur stole, holding a sword and orb. This imagery creates a visual code that directly references the monarchy. We can tell by the Latin inscription that he was King of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, and Duke of Bavaria in the 15th Century. This was a time of political instability and conflict. By looking at historical records and archives, we can understand the significance of this portrait as a symbol of power and legitimacy in a turbulent era. The meaning and function of this portrait are deeply rooted in its social and institutional context. As historians, we need to examine the conditions that shaped the production and reception of this image.