Artwork

Bartholomew from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul

Bartholomew from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul, by After Lucas Cranach the Elder
Bartholomew from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul, by After Lucas Cranach the Elder

Bartholomew from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul is a print by the Renaissance artist After Lucas Cranach the Elder. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Bartholomew from the series Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul is a 1564 print attributed to the workshop of Lucas Cranach the Elder.

About this work

Overview

Bartholomew from the series Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul is a 1564 print attributed to the workshop of Lucas Cranach the Elder. The work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection and exemplifies the Northern Renaissance approach to religious portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts the apostle Bartholomew, identifiable by his curly hair, beard, and solemn expression. He is shown seated at a table, hands clasped in contemplation, suggesting a moment of prayer or meditation on his martyrdom.

Technique & Style

Executed in the characteristic linear clarity of Cranach’s workshop, the print combines a green robe over a red shirt with a gold‑trimmed hat, set against a deep purple backdrop. The composition reflects the precise draftsmanship and balanced color palette typical of mid‑16th‑century German Renaissance prints.

History & Provenance

Created shortly after Cranach’s death, the piece was produced by his workshop and later entered the Cleveland Museum of Art. The museum acquired the work as part of its broader collection of Northern Renaissance prints, though specific acquisition details are not recorded here.

Context

Bartholomäus was one of the twelve apostles, often portrayed in devotional series that paired him with Christ and Saint Paul. Such series were intended for private contemplation, reinforcing the theological connections among the central figures of early Christianity.

Artist & collection

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