Artist: Lucas Cranach The Elder (1472 - 1553) Biography:
Lucas Cranach the Elder trained with his father in his birthplace and surname, Kronach. He traveled to Vienna in 1501 and drew mostly ruins and tress. He then went to Wittenberg where he became the court painter to Frederick the Wise of Saxony in 1505. Cranach specialized in portraits that were distinguished by their bright color, elegant costumes, and strong design. He also created engravings and woodcuts. In addition to his large workshop, Cranach owned a bookstore and a pharmacy. He also served on the city council and supervised the printing of his close friend, Martin Luther’s propaganda pamphlets. His Lutheran faith inspired him to also design woodcuts for Luther’s New Testament translation, altarpieces for their churches, and portraits of Protestant reformers