Artwork
Duke Heinrich the Proud (son of Duke Heinrich the black of Bavaria), died 1139
Duke Heinrich the Proud (son of Duke Heinrich the black of Bavaria), died 1139 is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach the Younger. It is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Duke Heinrich the Proud, a portrait painted in 1590 by Lucas Cranach the Younger, represents a historical figure from the 12th century. The subject is Heinrich, son of Heinrich the Black of Bavaria, who died in 1139.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Duke Heinrich the Proud in attire and accessories emblematic of nobility and power: a green robe with gold accents, a white hat with gold medallions, and a large gold medallion around his neck. These elements convey the subject's high status.
Technique & Style
Executed in the Northern Renaissance style, the portrait showcases detailed realism and individual expression. Cranach the Younger's use of color and composition achieves a sense of depth and dimensionality.
History & Provenance
Created in 1590 by Lucas Cranach the Younger, the painting is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection.
Context
Painted over 450 years after the subject's death, the work reflects the Renaissance interest in historical figures and nobility. Cranach the Younger's portrayal may have served to commemorate or legitimize the lineage of the depicted duke.
Legacy
As part of the Northern Renaissance corpus, *Duke Heinrich the Proud* contributes to the movement's emphasis on realism and individual portraiture. The painting remains a significant example of Lucas Cranach the Younger's skill in capturing the essence of noble subjects.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas Cranach the Younger (German: Lucas Cranach der Jüngere, IPA: ; 4 October 1515 – 25 January 1586) was a German Renaissance painter and portraitist, the son of Lucas Cranach the Elder and brother of Hans Cranach.
