Lucas CranachGerman, 1472–1553Saint Christopher
May one see it?
Not receiving at present
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Minneapolis, United States
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the work
Lucas Cranach helped launch the fashion in northern Europe for chiaroscuro woodcuts, a technique of making a print from two or more blocks—one carrying the black lines of the design and the other block or blocks carrying the color. This popular woodcut shows Saint Christopher, whose name means Christ bearer, ferrying the Christ Child across the river as the boy grows heavier and heavier. Though dated 1506 in the woodblock, this print was more likely created a few years later and backdated so that Cranach could claim that he invented this specialized printmaking technique.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Particulars
- Accession number
- P.68.137
In the catalog
Sources
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Image: Minneapolis Institute of Art — public domain
Meanwhile, in the life of Lucas Cranach
The whole life1505–1547
Post: court painter
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.
