The Battle of Mühlberg with the army of Charles V crossing the Elbe River 1551

This 1551 engraving by Italian artist Enea Vico depicts a pivotal moment in European history: the Battle of Mühlberg. The scene is dominated by a chaotic mass of soldiers crossing the Elbe River, their struggle emphasized by the dramatic, swirling lines of the composition. At the top of the engraving, figures representing Peace and War hover above the battle, suggesting the conflicting forces at play. This intricate detail, along with the realistic portrayal of the battle, is typical of the Mannerist style that Vico embraced. This print, held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a compelling glimpse into the artist's skill in representing historical events with both accuracy and artistry.