Artwork
James the Greater from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul

James the Greater 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.
About this work
Overview
James the Greater from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul is a 1564 print attributed to the circle of Lucas Cranach the Elder, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts James the Greater, an apostle, as an elderly man distinguished by a long white beard and a green turban. Accompanying elements—a staff, coins, and notably a sleeping dog beside him—convey themes of pilgrimage, charity, and possibly the quiet contemplation of a life devoted to faith.
Technique & Style
Executed with simple, bold lines and a muted color palette set against a dark background, the print exemplifies characteristics of Renaissance printmaking. The hand-drawn appearance and the use of bold colors are reminiscent of the period's illustrative styles.
History & Provenance
Created in 1564, the work's provenance prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here. Its attribution to 'Lucas Cranach the Elder, After' suggests it may not be a direct work by Cranach but rather by someone in his influence or workshop.
Context
The inclusion of German text below the image suggests the print was intended for a German-speaking audience, aligning with the religious and artistic trends of the Reformation era in Europe.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas Cranach the Elder, After (1472–1553) was a German artist.











