Justice of the Emperor Otto: The Execution of the Innocent Count 1475

Dirk Bouts's *Justice of the Emperor Otto: The Execution of the Innocent Count* (1475) depicts a scene of stark violence and injustice. The artwork, housed in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, captures the moment a noble is executed, his severed head held by an executioner. The scene is set against a backdrop of a medieval city, emphasizing the power of the state and the fragility of life. The painting is a powerful example of Early Netherlandish art, known for its meticulous detail, realistic portrayal of human figures, and emphasis on symbolism. It is considered a masterpiece of Northern Renaissance painting.