Who painted Der Glaube?

Der Glaube was painted by Bartholomeus Spranger in 1590.

Where can I see Der Glaube?

Der Glaube is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Der Glaube?

Der Glaube is associated with Mannerism.

Artwork

Der Glaube

Bartholomeus Spranger , 1590

Der Glaube is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Bartholomeus Spranger. It dates from 1590 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Bartholomeus Spranger’s 1590 oil painting *Der Glaube* is a compact portrait that exemplifies the Northern Mannerist aesthetic. Executed for the court of Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II, the work now resides in Munich’s Alte Pinakothek. Its restrained composition focuses on a solitary female figure rendered against a dark, unadorned background.

Subject & Meaning

The title, “Faith,” invites an interpretation of the figure as an allegorical embodiment of belief or piety, though her precise identity remains unidentified.

The sitter is presented in a modest white blouse with a dark collar, her light brown hair falling loosely over her shoulders. She holds a scroll in her left hand and gazes directly at the viewer with a composed expression, suggesting a contemplative or scholarly role. The title, “Faith,” invites an interpretation of the figure as an allegorical embodiment of belief or piety, though her precise identity remains unidentified.

Technique & Style

Spranger combines Netherlandish attention to detail with Italianate elongation of the body, a hallmark of Northern Mannerism. The figure’s proportions are subtly stretched, and the rendering of fabric and skin displays a refined, almost sensual delicacy. A subdued chiaroscuro model—strong contrasts of light on the face against a deep, flat background—draws the eye to the portrait’s central features.

History & Provenance

Created while Spranger served as court painter to Rudolf II, the painting entered the imperial collection before eventually being transferred to the Alte Pinakothek in the 19th century. The artist’s signature, placed on the frame, confirms its authorship, and the work has been documented in the museum’s catalogue since its acquisition.

Context

*Der Glaube* belongs to a period when Rudolf II’s Prague court fostered a hybrid artistic language, merging Flemish realism with the ornamental excess of Italian Mannerism. Spranger’s oeuvre frequently explored allegorical subjects and sensual poses, often featuring partially nude figures seen from behind; this portrait, however, adopts a more restrained, contemplative tone while retaining the movement’s characteristic elegance.