Who painted Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546)?

Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546) was painted by Unknown in 1558.

Where can I see Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546)?

Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546) is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546)?

Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546) is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546)

Unknown , 1558

Portrait of Martin Luther (1483–1546) is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Unknown. It dates from 1558 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The work is an oil painting that presents a close‑up view of a man with a round face, white beard and solemn expression.

About this work

Overview

The work is an oil painting that presents a close‑up view of a man with a round face, white beard and solemn expression. He is dressed in a black robe trimmed with a vivid red collar and a white clerical band around his neck, set against a dark background that isolates his visage.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is the reformer Martin Luther (1483–1546). The portrait emphasizes his calm yet intense demeanor, reflecting the gravitas associated with his theological role and the seriousness of his public persona.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, using soft shadows to model the facial features and give the portrait a three‑dimensional quality. The contrast between the illuminated face and the deep background heightens the sense of presence.

History & Provenance

The painting is identified as a portrait of Luther, but no further details about its creation date, artist, or ownership history are provided in the source material.