Artwork

Christ, the Twelve Apostles, and Saint Paul

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

Christ, the Twelve 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.

About this work

Overview

Christ, the Twelve Apostles, and Saint Paul is a set of 13 small religious prints created in 1564, attributed to the circle of Lucas Cranach the Elder. The collection is housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The prints depict Christ, the twelve apostles, and Saint Paul, each individually portrayed in simple frames. Their attire and accessories, such as books and scrolls, reflect their religious significance.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold colors (notably reds, greens, purples) and gold halos, the prints exhibit a stiff, flat style with sharp lines, contrasting with soft shading techniques common in the Renaissance.

History & Provenance

Created in 1564, the prints are part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. The German text identifying each figure is included below each print.

Context

While the style diverges from the softer, more nuanced Renaissance norms, the work aligns with the religious themes prevalent during the period, particularly in Germany.

Legacy

The set reflects the enduring representation of religious figures in 16th-century German art, though its specific influence or notable impact on later art movements is not prominently documented.

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.