Surrender of the Elector of Saxony

Unknown

ca. 1560–70 · Steel, gold, silver · Arms and Armor

This is an unusual example of armor that is embossed with a contemporary scene rather than one from ancient history, mythology, or the Bible. The shield depicts the surrender of Prince-Electory Johann Friedrich of Saxony (1503–1554) to Emperor Charles V (reigned 1519–56) after the battle of Mühlberg on April 24, 1547. This battle marked the defeat of Protestant German princes at the hands of the Catholic League, led by the emperor. The scene derives from an engraving by Maerten van Heemskerck (1498–1574) that is part of a series depicting the triumphs of Charles V, published in Antwerp in 1556.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1560–70

Medium

Steel, gold, silver

Culture

Italian, Milan

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942