319 - M. MERIAN (1621–1687), Countess Helfenstein Pleads for Mercy, Copper engraving

M. MERIAN (1621–1687), Countess Helfenstein Pleads for Mercy, Copper engraving Matthäus Merian (1621 Basel – 1687 Frankfurt am Main): Countess Helfenstein asks Jäcklein Rohrbach for mercy for her husband, 17th century, copper engraving Technique: Copper engraving on paper Date: 17th century Description: The killing of Count Ludwig von Helfenstein and his companions at the gates of the town of Weinsberg by rebellious peasants during the German Peasants’ War on April 16, 1525—an Easter Sunday—went down in history as the Bloody Massacre of Weinsberg. This depiction bears witness to that very event: the kneeling countess, accompanied by her son, begs the rebels for mercy. Margaretha von Helfenstein and her son, however, were spared. Source: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 Frankfurt–1832 Weimar) Götz von Berlichingen | Theater, Genre Keywords: 17th century, Baroque, Military, Germany, Size: Paper: 10.4 cm x 14.5 cm (4.1 x 5.7 in), Depiction: 10.4 cm x 14.5 cm (4.1 x 5.7 in) Condition: Good condition. The sheet is mounted in a paper passe-partout.