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Lucas Cranach the Elder (1472-1553)

Interested in the life of Lucas Cranach the Elder? Lucas Cranach and his sons are very significant figures in the Reformation, as their illustrations of Luther's work gave it national and international importance. Their comic books and powerful art helped the general populace to understand the gospel in a new way, as well as leaving us a rich record of the Reformers. For further links to Cranach's works and more biographical information, click here

"Such is the power of their work that it resembles the music of Bach as a living testimony to the power of the gospel"
Irving Hexham, "The Christian Travelers Guide to Germany.

Click here to read a time-line of Cranach's life
Sites you'll see on our tours...... Ready to visit? Click here for details....
Cranach House in Wittenberg, where he lived from 1504 to 1550. Currently being renovated.
The center panel of the altar triptych in St Mary's, Wittenberg.
Cranach House in Weimar, where he lived in his final year.

Time-line of Lucas Cranach's life

1472 Born in Kronach in Southern Germany. Taught art by his father, Hans Müller, until 1498.
1500-1504 Attended university in Vienna and changed his name to Cranach, after his hometown.
1504 Came to Wittenberg at the invitation of Frederick the Wise as court painter - a postition he held for 45 years. He also established a school of painting.
1508 Made a member of nobility with coat of arms: winged snake
1508 Visited Netherlands
1510 Married Barbara Brengbier, the mayor's daughter.
1513, 1515 Sons Hans and Lucas born. Both became artists
1517, 1519 Daughters Ursula and Barbara born.
1519 Made woodcuts for Luther's tracts, which greatly increased their popularity.
1519 Became a member of the city council.
1520 - Opened an apothecary's shop, a printing press and a bookshop
1537-44 Served as burgomaster (mayor) three times.
1550 After Frederick was defeated, he went into exile in Augsburg and Innsbruck.
1553

Moved to Weimar

October 16, 1553 Died in Weimar at the house he shared with his son-in-law.

Further Links:

  • Wittenberg site: A biography and time-line on the official Wittenberg website.
  • Artcyclopedia: Extensive links to where you can view Cranach's paintings in museums and art galleries all around the world.
  • Click here for the Web Gallery of Art's collection of Cranach paintings. They are divided into 9 categories and many have extra information and postcards.
  • Like to know more? Contact Erwin Weber to use his 74 minute Slide show (PowerPoint) on the life and works of Lucas Cranach.

 


The information on this site is presented for Christians to learn more about their heritage. While every effort for accuracy has been made, please contact us if you notice anything that needs to be brought to our attention.

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