King Christian II of Denmark 1523

Lucas Cranach the Elder's woodcut portrait of King Christian II of Denmark, created in 1523, depicts the monarch in a regal pose, with a fur-trimmed robe and a prominent chain around his neck. Surrounding him is an ornate architectural framework adorned with his royal insignia, including a series of shields with the coat of arms of the Danish realms. The inscription below details his official titles, emphasizing the vast scope of his authority. The woodcut's stark lines and high contrast effectively communicate the king's authority and the seriousness of his presence, making it a striking example of a portrait from the early 16th century.