14. Georg Pencz
(ca. 1500-1550)
Johann Friedrich, Elector of Saxony

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Pencz: Johann Friedrich

Johann Friedrich, Elector of Saxony

Engraving, 1543, 395 x 306 mm., Bartsch 126, Landau 124 only state, Provenance: Duc d'Arenberg (L. 567). Though Pencz became the leading portrait painter of his time in South Germany, this impressive plate is his only portrait engraving. "The execution of the engraving is most precise," writes David Landau, " more so than any of Pencz's previous or subsequent work: every detail of the face, of the very rich costume, the jewels, the fourteen crests that surround the Elector, is treated with minute care…yet the result is not a piece of jewelry but the energetic, forceful portrait of a man who was noted for these qualities…" Johann Friedrich (1503-1554), called “The Magnanimous” was defeated and imprisoned by Charles V (see the portrait by Hopfer above) and forced to renounce his electorate. He was freed but never regained the title. A fine impression from a famous collection.