Artwork

The Judgment of Paris

The Judgment of Paris, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, ink, 1508
The Judgment of Paris, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, ink, 1508

The Judgment of Paris is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach the Elder. It dates from 1508 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Judgment of Paris is a 1508 woodcut by Lucas Cranach the Elder, a prominent artist of the German Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates the classical myth of Paris, a Trojan prince, choosing the most beautiful goddess from Juno, Minerva, and Venus, symbolizing a contest of beauty and judgment.

Technique & Style

Cranach's woodcut features intricate detail, with sharp lines defining foliage and fabric folds, creating a vivid scene. The image is populated with figures, trees, a castle, and various animals, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing a complex composition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder

Artist

Lucas Cranach the Elder

Lucas Cranach the Elder was a German Renaissance painter and printmaker in woodcut and engraving.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.