The monogram J-G-S on the diamond-studded chain stands for: Johann Georg the First of Saxony.
He became Elector in 1611, when his brother, Christian the Second, died at the age of twenty-eight – without an heir. Christian the Second had a reputation for ostentation and drunkenness. He had been a boy of eight when his father died. As soon as he grew up, he was made to take over the reigns of government. From 1607 onwards, Christian shared power with his brother, Johann Georg, but the two of them frequently quarrelled over money.
He ruled for 45 years, until his death in 1656. It was the longest reign of any Elector of Saxony. In the run-up to the Thirty Years War, he played an important diplomatic role, but despite his efforts, he was unable to keep Saxony out of the devastating conflagration.
Magdalena Sibylla of Brandenburg was his second wife. You see a miniature portrait of her here – on the small oval medallion. This little oil painting was probably done about 1637. It shows the Electress in a lace collar – a fashion of the time – and wearing gold jewellery. The other side of the medallion bears a portrait of her husband, Johann Georg the First.
