John (Bishop of Salisbury) Fisher Paintings

John Fisher, born around 19 October 1469, was not primarily an artist but a significant figure in English history, being a Catholic bishop, theologian, and scholar. He gained prominence as the Bishop of Salisbury and a leading intellectual figure during the early 16th century. Fisher was also a contemporary and confidant of Thomas More, another key figure of the period.

Fisher was educated at the University of Cambridge in England, where he later became the Chancellor and was instrumental in raising the academic standards of the institution. He was known for his work in defending the Catholic Church's teachings during the turbulent times of the Protestant Reformation. His opposition to Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine of Aragon and his refusal to recognize Henry as the Supreme Head of the Church of England ultimately led to his downfall.

In 1534, Fisher refused to take the Oath of Supremacy, which acknowledged the king as the Supreme Head of the Church of England and rejected the Pope's authority. This act was considered treason, and as a result, Fisher was imprisoned in the Tower of London. While in custody, he was made a cardinal by Pope Paul III, which was a move that infuriated King Henry VIII. Despite this honor, Fisher's fate was sealed; he was convicted of treason and executed by beheading on 22 June 1535.

John Fisher was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1935, and he is remembered as a martyr and a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His life and works have been commemorated and studied for their theological significance and his steadfast commitment to his beliefs in the face of persecution.