This painting is part of the group: Diptych: Two Electors of Saxony
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Johann Friedrich (1503 - 1554) succeeded his father in 1532 as the Elector of Saxony. He was six years old when this picture was painted. This portrait is joined to one of Johann Friedrich's father, 'Johann the Steadfast'.
The pairing of portraits of father and son is unusual, and may have arisen because the six-year-old Johann Friedrich's mother, Sophia of Mecklenburg, died giving birth to him.
On the reverse of the panel is the family coat of arms. The frame is probably original.
The pairing of portraits of father and son is unusual, and may have arisen because the six-year-old Johann Friedrich's mother, Sophia of Mecklenburg, died giving birth to him.
On the reverse of the panel is the family coat of arms. The frame is probably original.
Other paintings in this group: Diptych: Two Electors of Saxony
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The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN