Artwork

Philip from Christ, the Apostles, and Saint Paul

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

Philip 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. This work, a print dated 1564, portrays the apostle Philip as part of a series that includes Christ, the other apostles, and Saint Paul.

About this work

The style of the painting is similar to that of Lucas Cranach the Elder, After (German, 1472–1553), who was a famous artist during the Renaissance period.

This painting shows a man with a halo, wearing a red robe and a white cloak. He holds a staff in his right hand.

The man's face is serious, and his eyes seem to be looking down. The background of the painting is a dark color, which makes the man stand out.

The style of the painting is similar to that of Lucas Cranach the Elder, After (German, 1472–1553), who was a famous artist during the Renaissance period.

Overview

This work, a print dated 1564, portrays the apostle Philip as part of a series that includes Christ, the other apostles, and Saint Paul. Executed in the style of Lucas Cranach the Elder, it is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

Philip is shown with a luminous halo, signifying his saintly status, and dressed in a vivid red garment beneath a white mantle. He grasps a staff in his right hand, a traditional attribute of the apostle, while his solemn expression and downward gaze convey contemplation and devotion.

Technique & Style

The image follows the characteristic Northern Renaissance approach of Cranach, employing clear outlines and a restrained palette. The figure is set against a deep, almost black background, which heightens the contrast of the bright clothing and emphasizes the spiritual aura of the saint.

History & Provenance

Created shortly after Cranach’s lifetime, the print reflects the workshop’s continuation of his visual language. It entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings in the 20th century, where it remains on display as part of the museum’s European prints collection.

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.