The Dresden State Art Collections (SKD) are celebrating the 500th anniversary of the birth of their founder, August of Saxony (1526–1586). He had been Elector since 1553 and was regarded as one of the most important Central European rulers of the Renaissance. Around 1560, he founded the Kunstkammer in the Dresden Royal Palace, thereby laying the foundation for the electoral collections and today’s SKD. July 31 marks the anniversary of his birth.
In this anniversary year, the Mathematical-Physical Salon, in collaboration with other SKD museums, is organizing themed tours and an international conference, the collections announced. The next themed tour will take place this coming Thursday, the eve of his birthday. It will focus on the ruler’s horoscope. On October 7, visitors to the Main State Archives will be able to gain insights into 16th-century governance and view letters written personally by the Elector.
Under the title “Knowledge, Representation, and the Practice of Rule at the Court of Elector August of Saxony (1526–1586). 500 Years and Many Unanswered Questions,” scholars from Germany and abroad will gather for a conference from October 4 to 6.
