Christopher, Margrave of Baden

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our prints: nn Before you stands a striking portrait of "Christopher, Margrave of Baden," a woodcut created by the German artist Hans Baldung in 1511. Even after centuries, this portrait retains a remarkable sense of presence, drawing us into the world of this early 16th-century ruler. nn Notice how Baldung captures our attention with the Margrave's direct gaze and the skillful use of light and shadow. The Margrave is presented in profile, his strong features framed by a soft, rounded hat adorned with a badge. Baldung's mastery of woodcut is evident in the intricate details of the Margrave's fur or velvet jacket and the fine lines that etch his contemplative expression. The stark black and white contrast, characteristic of woodcut, further emphasizes the Margrave's commanding presence. nn This portrait, measuring a mere 12.5 by 9.5 centimeters, demonstrates the power of small-scale prints to convey both the likeness and the social standing of their subjects. In an era before photography, such portraits served as important records of individual identity and authority. Here at the National Gallery of Art, we are fortunate to have this exquisite example of Baldung's artistry, a testament to his skill and to the enduring power of portraiture.