Portret van Heinrich von Knöringen 1621

Lucas Kilian created this engraving of Heinrich von Knöringen in Augsburg in 1621. Kilian has depicted Knöringen within an elaborate oval frame, presenting him as both a religious and noble figure. Looking closer, the image creates meaning through specific visual codes. The cherubs, heraldic symbols, and Latin inscriptions elevate Knöringen’s status. Augsburg, a significant city within the Holy Roman Empire, was marked by religious and political tensions in the early 17th century. As Bishop of Augsburg, Knöringen was a key figure in the Counter-Reformation. This engraving, therefore, reflects the socio-political context of its time, reinforcing Knöringen’s authority within the Catholic Church. To fully understand this work, we can consult historical documents, religious texts, and biographical information, gaining insight into the complex interplay between art, religion, and power during the early 17th century.