Pierre Eskrich (French 1518-1590) — Dance Master, An illustration of Freedom

From an “Emblem” book of Diverse Moral Principles, 1549; Woodcut; Born around 1518 in Paris and active until after 1590, he is also referred to as Pierre Cruche or Pierre Vase. Eskrich was closely associated with humanist circles during the Reformation and created works that often reflected the religious tensions of his time. Eskrich is recognized for his graphics, particularly his 16-piece satire of Catholicism from a Protestant perspective. He fled Lyon due to the Edict of Chateaubriand targeting Protestants, later settling in Geneva. His works often depicted themes relevant to the Protestant Reformation, reflecting the socio-political climate of 16th-century Europe.