Das erste Turnier

1501–1504 · Workplace

Vienna

1502–1504

First Contacts with Humanists in Vienna

During his stay in Vienna, Cranach made his first contacts with the leading humanists of his age and began signing his paintings "Lucas aus Kronach."

24 June 1504

First Record as Court Painter

Cranach's name first appears in the Wittenberg accounts: he received 50 guilders as a half-year's salary as pictor ducalis — painter to Elector Frederick the Wise.

1505 · Workplace

Lutherstadt Wittenberg

1508

Diplomatic Mission to Mechelen

He was sent on a diplomatic mission to Mechelen (Netherlands), where he painted portraits of Emperor Maximilian I and the future Emperor Charles V.

6 January 1508

Granted Nobility and a Coat of Arms

Cranach was granted nobility and a personal coat of arms — a winged serpent with a ruby ring in its mouth, which became the signature of his works and workshop.