Who was Lucas Cranach the Younger, and what was his primary artistic contribution?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was a German Renaissance painter and portraitist. He is primarily known for his work in painting, continuing the legacy of his father's workshop.

What are the birth and death dates for Lucas Cranach the Younger?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was born on October 4, 1515, and died on January 25, 1586.

Where was Lucas Cranach the Younger born and where did he die?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was born and died in Wittenberg, which was part of the Electorate of Saxony within the Holy Roman Empire.

What art movement is Lucas Cranach the Younger associated with?

Lucas Cranach the Younger is associated with the German Renaissance art movement.

Who were Lucas Cranach the Younger's immediate family members in the art world?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was the son of the renowned painter Lucas Cranach the Elder and the brother of Hans Cranach, who was also an artist.

What significant event in Wittenberg influenced the Cranach family's artistic output?

The Protestant Reformation, which began in Wittenberg in 1517, significantly influenced the Cranach family's work, particularly Lucas Cranach the Elder's role as a producer of Protestant artistic propaganda.

How did Lucas Cranach the Younger become the head of the family workshop?

Lucas Cranach the Younger assumed full responsibility for his father's workshop after the sudden death of his older brother, Hans, in 1537, and further took over completely when his father, Lucas Cranach the Elder, went into exile with his patron in 1550.

What was the status of Lucas Cranach the Younger's workshop after he took over?

Under Lucas Cranach the Younger's leadership, the family workshop successfully maintained its high output of quality work, continuing to produce significant pieces, including portraits of Reformers like Martin Luther.

Did Lucas Cranach the Younger hold the title of court painter?

No, the text states that Lucas Cranach the Younger was never a court painter, although he did work for members of the social elite, including princes and nobles.

What did theologian Georg Mylius say about the prevalence of Cranach the Younger's work?

Theologian Georg Mylius noted that upon Cranach the Younger's death in 1586, his artwork could be found in various significant locations, including churches, schools, castles, and houses.

Beyond his artistic career, what other roles did Lucas Cranach the Younger fulfill?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was also a successful businessman and politician. He held several political offices in Wittenberg, including serving on the city council, as Chamberlain, and as Burgomaster.

In what years did Lucas Cranach the Younger serve in Wittenberg's political offices?

He began serving in political offices in Wittenberg in 1549, holding positions such as Chamberlain from 1555 and Burgomaster from 1565.

When did Lucas Cranach the Younger get married for the first time, and to whom?

Lucas Cranach the Younger married Barbara Brück on February 20, 1541.

Who was Barbara Brück, the first wife of Lucas Cranach the Younger?

Barbara Brück was the daughter of Gregor Brück, who served as Martin Luther's legal advisor and was also Cranach the Younger's neighbor in Wittenberg.

How many children did Lucas Cranach the Younger have with his first wife, Barbara Brück?

Lucas Cranach the Younger had three sons and one daughter with his first wife, Barbara Brück.

What happened to Barbara Brück, the first wife of Lucas Cranach the Younger?

Barbara Brück died of the plague on February 10, 1550.

When did Lucas Cranach the Younger remarry, and to whom?

Lucas Cranach the Younger remarried Magdalena Schurff on May 24, 1551.

How many children did Lucas Cranach the Younger have with his second wife, Magdalena Schurff?

Lucas Cranach the Younger had five children with his second wife, Magdalena Schurff.

Who was the son of Lucas Cranach the Younger who also became a painter?

His son Augustin Cranach became a painter.

Where is Lucas Cranach the Younger buried?

Lucas Cranach the Younger is buried in the church of St Mary in Wittenberg, also known as Stadtkirche Wittenberg, adjacent to one of his altarpieces.

What is the title of the painting featured in the infobox, and what is its significance?

The painting featured in the infobox is titled 'Portrait of a Bearded Man,' and it is noted as a possible self-portrait of Lucas Cranach the Younger, dated around 1546.

What is the subject of the artwork shown next to the 'Life and career' section?

The artwork shown next to the 'Life and career' section is titled 'Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery,' and it is housed in the Hermitage Museum in Russia.

Can you list some of the specific artworks attributed to Lucas Cranach the Younger mentioned in the 'Works' section?

Some specific artworks mentioned include 'Adam and Eve,' 'Nymph of the Spring' (1545–1550), 'Christ blessing the children' (1545–1550), 'Christ and the adulteress' (1545–1550), 'Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder' (1550), 'Portrait of Philipp Melanchthon' (1562), 'Portrait of Georg Cracow and family' (1563), and 'John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony' (1578).

What is the approximate date range for the paintings 'Nymph of the Spring,' 'Christ blessing the children,' and 'Christ and the adulteress'?

These three paintings, 'Nymph of the Spring,' 'Christ blessing the children,' and 'Christ and the adulteress,' are all dated to the period between 1545 and 1550.

What specific portraits are listed under 'The Family of Sigismund I of Poland'?

The portraits listed under this section are of Sigismund I the Old (circa 1553), Sigismund II Augustus (1553), Elizabeth Habsburg (Queen of Poland), Barbara Radziwiłł (Queen of Poland), and Catherine of Austria (Queen of Poland).

What is the significance of the external link to Wikimedia Commons?

The Wikimedia Commons link provides access to media files related to Lucas Cranach the Younger, allowing users to view images and other multimedia content associated with him.

What is the Cranach Digital Archive (cda)?

The Cranach Digital Archive (cda) is described as a research resource dedicated to Lucas Cranach, likely providing comprehensive information and digital access to his works and related studies.

What kind of information is available through the external link to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection catalog?

The external link points to a collection catalog titled 'Fifteenth- to eighteenth-century European paintings,' which contains material specifically on Lucas Cranach the Younger, cataloged as item number 10.

How is Lucas Cranach the Younger related to Lucas Cranach the Elder's artistic legacy?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was the son of Lucas Cranach the Elder and inherited and managed his father's influential workshop, continuing the family's artistic tradition and producing works in a similar style, particularly within the context of the German Renaissance and the Reformation.

What does the presence of the 'Lucas Cranach the Elder' navbox suggest about the relationship between father and son?

The navbox dedicated to Lucas Cranach the Elder, which lists artworks and family members including Lucas Cranach the Younger, highlights the strong familial connection and the continuation of artistic work from father to son within the Cranach lineage.

What does the 'Authority control' section indicate about Lucas Cranach the Younger's recognition?

The 'Authority control' section lists numerous international and national databases (like VIAF, GND, Library of Congress, etc.) where Lucas Cranach the Younger is cataloged. This indicates that he is a recognized figure whose works and biographical data are systematically documented and accessible across various global and national library and archival systems.

What specific political offices did Lucas Cranach the Younger hold in Wittenberg?

Lucas Cranach the Younger held several political offices in Wittenberg, including serving on the city council starting in 1549, as Chamberlain from 1555, and as Burgomaster from 1565.

What was the context of Lucas Cranach the Elder's exile and its impact on his son's career?

Lucas Cranach the Elder went into exile in 1550 with his patron, John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony. This departure from Wittenberg led Lucas Cranach the Younger to assume full responsibility for the family's flourishing workshop, a role he managed successfully.

What types of subjects did Lucas Cranach the Younger typically paint, based on the listed works?

Based on the listed works, Lucas Cranach the Younger painted religious subjects (like 'Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery,' 'Christ blessing the children'), mythological or allegorical scenes ('Nymph of the Spring,' 'Cupid Complaining to Venus'), and numerous portraits of historical and notable figures ('Portrait of a Bearded Man,' 'Portrait of Philipp Melanchthon,' 'John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony').

What does the inclusion of 'Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder (1550)' in the list of works signify?

The inclusion of 'Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder (1550)' signifies that Lucas Cranach the Younger painted a portrait of his father, demonstrating a continuation of the portraiture tradition within the family and potentially serving as a record of the elder artist.

What is the significance of the 'The Family of Sigismund I of Poland' section?

This section highlights a specific series of portraits painted by Lucas Cranach the Younger, depicting members of the Polish royal family, including Sigismund I the Old, Sigismund II Augustus, and their consorts, showcasing his engagement with international nobility.

How old was Lucas Cranach the Younger when he died?

Lucas Cranach the Younger was 70 years old when he died on January 25, 1586.

What is the relationship between Lucas Cranach the Younger and the artist Augustin Cranach?

Augustin Cranach was the son of Lucas Cranach the Younger, continuing the family's artistic legacy into the next generation.

What does the mention of 'Lutheran art' in the navbox imply about Cranach the Younger's work?

The mention of 'Lutheran art' suggests that Cranach the Younger's work, like his father's, was often associated with the themes and patronage of the Protestant Reformation, particularly within the Lutheran tradition.

What is the meaning of the abbreviation 'c.' or 'ca.' used with dates in the text?

The abbreviation 'c.' or 'ca.' stands for 'circa,' which is a Latin term meaning 'approximately' or 'around.' It is used to indicate that a date is an estimate rather than an exact year.

What does the term 'Electorate of Saxony' refer to in the context of Cranach the Younger's life?

The Electorate of Saxony was a state within the Holy Roman Empire, and Wittenberg, where Lucas Cranach the Younger lived and worked, was a significant city within this electorate. It was a center of political and religious activity during the Renaissance.

What is the significance of Wittenberg during the time of Lucas Cranach the Younger?

Wittenberg was a crucial city as it was the birthplace of the Protestant Reformation, heavily influenced by Martin Luther. It was also the base for the Cranach family's renowned painting workshop, making it a hub for both religious reform and artistic production.

What does the term 'Holy Roman Empire' signify in relation to Lucas Cranach the Younger?

The Holy Roman Empire was the larger political entity encompassing Wittenberg and the Electorate of Saxony during Lucas Cranach the Younger's lifetime. It was a complex feudal system of states in central Europe.

What does the reference to 'German Renaissance' indicate about Cranach the Younger's artistic style?

Being associated with the German Renaissance indicates that Cranach the Younger's art belongs to a period of significant cultural and artistic development in Germany, characterized by a revival of classical influences, humanism, and distinct regional styles, often blending Northern European traditions with Italian Renaissance ideas.

What is the role of an 'apprentice' in an artist's workshop, as mentioned in Cranach the Younger's training?

An apprentice is a person who is learning a trade or skill by working for a skilled practitioner. In the context of an artist's workshop, an apprentice would assist the master artist, learn techniques, and gradually develop their own artistic abilities.

What does the term 'patron' mean in the context of Lucas Cranach the Elder's exile?

A patron is a person or entity that provides financial or other support to an artist or cause. In this case, John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony, was the patron who supported Lucas Cranach the Elder, accompanying him during his exile.

What is the significance of the 'Stadtkirche Wittenberg' in relation to Lucas Cranach the Younger?

The Stadtkirche Wittenberg, also known as the church of St Mary, is significant because it houses one of Lucas Cranach the Younger's finest altarpieces, and it is also where he is buried, indicating a close connection to this religious institution.

What does the term 'Burgomaster' refer to?

A Burgomaster is a high-ranking civic official, essentially the mayor of a town or city, particularly in German-speaking regions. Cranach the Younger's role as Burgomaster indicates his significant standing and involvement in the civic administration of Wittenberg.

What is the likely purpose of including authority control identifiers like VIAF and GND for Lucas Cranach the Younger?

These identifiers link the Wikipedia article to standardized databases used by libraries and archives worldwide. They help ensure consistency in identifying Lucas Cranach the Younger across different catalogs and resources, aiding researchers in finding comprehensive information about him.

What does the term 'portraitist' mean in relation to Lucas Cranach the Younger?

A portraitist is an artist who specializes in creating portraits, which are paintings, drawings, photographs, or engravings of a person, especially one depicting only the face or head. Lucas Cranach the Younger was known for his skill in this genre.

Lucas Cranach The Younger Wiki: Lucas Cranach the Younger: Master of the Renaissance Workshop

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Introduction

A Renaissance Painter

Lucas Cranach the Younger (German: Lucas Cranach der Jüngere; 4 October 1515 – 25 January 1586) was a distinguished German Renaissance painter and portraitist. He was the son of the renowned Lucas Cranach the Elder and the brother of Hans Cranach, continuing a significant artistic lineage.

Wittenberg Roots

Born and ultimately passing away in Wittenberg, Electorate of Saxony, within the Holy Roman Empire, Cranach the Younger was deeply connected to this center of Renaissance culture and the Protestant Reformation. His life and career were intrinsically tied to the city's intellectual and artistic milieu.

Artistic Lineage

As the second son of Lucas Cranach the Elder, Lucas Cranach the Younger received his foundational artistic training within his father's highly productive workshop. He honed his skills alongside his older brother, Hans, preparing him for a significant role in the family's artistic enterprise.

Artistic Heritage & Training

Apprenticeship and Early Career

Lucas Cranach the Younger commenced his artistic journey as an apprentice in his father's esteemed workshop. This rigorous training environment, shared with his brother Hans, provided him with comprehensive instruction in painting techniques and the workshop's established artistic practices. Following the unexpected death of Hans in 1537, Lucas the Younger began to assume increasingly vital responsibilities within the workshop's operations.^[1]

The Workshop's Continuity

In 1550, Lucas Cranach the Elder departed Wittenberg to join his patron, John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony, in exile.^[1] This pivotal moment led to Lucas Cranach the Younger assuming complete leadership of the flourishing family workshop. He demonstrated considerable skill in maintaining the workshop's high standards and prolific output, ensuring its continued success and reputation.

The Workshop Master

Art of the Reformation

Under Cranach the Younger's direction, the workshop continued its significant role in producing art associated with the Protestant Reformation. This included numerous depictions of key Reformers, such as Martin Luther himself, contributing to the visual dissemination of Reformation ideas.^[2]

Serving the Elite

While not holding the official title of court painter, Cranach the Younger successfully cultivated relationships with members of the social elite. His clientele included princes and nobles, for whom he produced portraits and other commissioned works, reflecting his status and the workshop's broad appeal.

Widespread Influence

The theologian Georg Mylius noted the pervasive presence of Cranach the Younger's work, stating that it could be found in "churches and schools, in castles and houses."^[3] This observation underscores the widespread impact and acceptance of his art throughout various strata of society during his lifetime.

Civic Engagement & Business Acumen

A Successful Entrepreneur

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Lucas Cranach the Younger achieved considerable success as a businessman. His acumen extended beyond the painting workshop, contributing to his high standing within the community of Wittenberg.

Political Leadership

Cranach the Younger also played an active role in civic administration. He held several important political offices in Wittenberg, including serving on the city council from 1549, as Chamberlain from 1555, and notably as Burgomaster from 1565 onwards. This demonstrates a multifaceted career combining artistic, commercial, and public service.^[1]^[3]

Family Ties

Familial Connections

Lucas Cranach the Younger was born into a prominent artistic family. His father was the celebrated Lucas Cranach the Elder, and his brother was Hans Cranach. His own family life was marked by two marriages and several children.

Marriages and Offspring

On 20 February 1541, he married Barbara Brück, daughter of Gregor Brück, who served as Luther's legal advisor and was a neighbor to the Cranach family in Wittenberg. This union produced three sons and one daughter. After Barbara's death from plague on 10 February 1550, Cranach married Magdalena Schurff on 24 May 1551. This second marriage resulted in five children, including the future painter Augustin Cranach.^[4] His daughter Elisabeth married Polykarp Leyser the Elder.

Notable Works

Artistic Creations

Lucas Cranach the Younger's oeuvre encompasses a range of subjects, including religious scenes, mythological figures, and portraits of significant historical and contemporary individuals. His work often reflects the stylistic continuity of his father's workshop while developing its own distinct qualities. A notable work attributed to him is the Portrait of a Bearded Man, dated circa 1546, which is believed by some scholars to be a self-portrait.

Selected Paintings:

Adam and Eve
Nymph of the Spring (c. 1545–1550)
Christ blessing the children (c. 1545–1550)
Christ and the adulteress (c. 1545–1550)
Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder (1550) - A significant portrait of his father.
Portrait of Philipp Melanchthon (1562)
Portrait of Georg Cracow and family (1563)
John Frederick I, Elector of Saxony (1578)

Royal Portraits: The Family of Sigismund I of Poland

Sigismund I the Old (ca. 1553)
Sigismund II Augustus (1553)
Elizabeth Habsburg, Queen of Poland
Barbara Radziwiłł, Queen of Poland
Catherine of Austria, Queen of Poland

Enduring Legacy

Artistic and Civic Footprint

Lucas Cranach the Younger's artistic output and his successful business and political career cemented his significant standing in Wittenberg and the broader German Renaissance landscape. His works continue to be appreciated for their quality and historical context.

A Continued Tradition

His ability to maintain the high standards and productivity of the Cranach workshop after his father's departure, while also engaging in civic leadership, highlights his multifaceted talents. His legacy is that of a skilled artist, a shrewd businessman, and an influential community figure.

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References

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Lucas Cranach the Younger

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction ℹ️

🎨 A Renaissance Painter

📍 Wittenberg Roots

📜 Artistic Lineage

Artistic Heritage & Training 👨‍🎨

🖌️ Apprenticeship and Early Career

🏛️ The Workshop's Continuity

The Workshop Master 🏭

⛪ Art of the Reformation

👑 Serving the Elite

🌍 Widespread Influence

Civic Engagement & Business Acumen ⚖️

💰 A Successful Entrepreneur

🏛️ Political Leadership

Family Ties 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🌳 Familial Connections

💍 Marriages and Offspring

Notable Works 🖼️

📜 Artistic Creations

Selected Paintings:

Royal Portraits: The Family of Sigismund I of Poland

Enduring Legacy 🌟

🏰 Artistic and Civic Footprint

📖 A Continued Tradition

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

A Renaissance Painter

Wittenberg Roots

Artistic Lineage

Artistic Heritage & Training

Apprenticeship and Early Career

The Workshop's Continuity

The Workshop Master

Art of the Reformation

Serving the Elite

Widespread Influence

Civic Engagement & Business Acumen

A Successful Entrepreneur

Political Leadership

Family Ties

Familial Connections

Marriages and Offspring

Notable Works

Artistic Creations

Enduring Legacy

Artistic and Civic Footprint

A Continued Tradition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice