Artwork

Johann the Steadfast, son of Duke Ernst, died 1532

Johann the Steadfast, son of Duke Ernst, died 1532, by Lucas Cranach the Younger, unspecified
Johann the Steadfast, son of Duke Ernst, died 1532, by Lucas Cranach the Younger, unspecified

Johann the Steadfast, son of Duke Ernst, died 1532 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

This portrait, created by Lucas Cranach the Younger in 1590, is a representation of Johann the Steadfast, Elector of Saxony. It is a characteristic work of the Northern Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Johann, a significant figure in Saxon history, dressed in elaborate attire, with symbols of his status, including a sword and ornate clothing.

Technique & Style

Cranach the Younger's use of detailed texture, such as the tiny black dots on the subject's fur hat and coat, demonstrates his skill as a portraitist. The plain blue background and gold border with inscriptions frame the subject.

History & Provenance

The painting is now part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection. It was created by Lucas Cranach the Younger, who followed in the tradition of his father, Lucas Cranach the Elder, a prominent painter of the German Renaissance.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Younger

Artist

Lucas Cranach the Younger

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.