Portrait of Emperor Matthias of Habsburg.

Engraving, 69,4 x 44 cm, laid paper glued on cardb. support, signed in plate at lower centre (sm. repaired tear).

Stuck at upper corners under passe-partout.

Known as one of the most magnificent portrait engravings of its time, Sadeler's portrait of Holy Roman Emperor Matthias of Habsburg surrounds the garland medallion with a rich array of allegorical figures referring to his reign and to his personal victories. Underneath the imperial eagle his servents kneel before the prince, including a group of conquered Turks at lower right. As symbols of Temperance and Victory, Pegasus is tamed on the left and a dragon is impaled on the right by a winged female soldier. Latin text in capitals dates and describes print's content. 3rd state (of 3).
Ref. Hollstein XXI:310.3.