Frederick the Wise and John the Constant of Saxony 1509

Lucas Cranach the Elder created this engraving, "Frederick the Wise and John the Constant of Saxony" on paper. Both figures are rendered with attention to detail and the textures of their garments and hair. Cranach was a court painter in service to these very figures who were staunch supporters of the Protestant Reformation. These men were not just political figures but also key players in a transformative religious movement. Their choices had profound implications for the social fabric of their time. The image displays the weight of responsibility, and also their wealth through material items like jewelry and fur. Cranach, deeply embedded in their court, was also instrumental in visually shaping the Protestant cause. This piece then is not simply a portrait; it’s a statement of power, identity, and religious conviction. It embodies a pivotal moment in history, reflecting how personal beliefs can reshape the course of society.