Heilige Johannes van Capestrano 1614

This 1614 engraving by Johannes (II) Sadeler depicts Saint John of Capistrano, a Franciscan friar, holding a flag and standing above a battlefield. Saint John was known for his role in the fight against the Ottoman Empire. Sadeler’s engraving, with its detailed depiction of the saint and the battle, is a powerful example of the genre of religious art. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of drama and solemnity, while the inclusion of historical details adds depth and context to the work. The text below the image, "B. IOHANNES CAPISTRANVS ORDINIS S. FRANCISCI, Christianorum contra turcam, magnus propugnator," identifies Saint John's role as a powerful advocate for Christianity. This engraving is a compelling testament to the artist’s skill and the importance of religious figures in European art.