Lucas Cranach the Elder

Born around 1472 in Kronach, Germany, he learned drawing from his father Hans Maler and later adopted his birthplace as his surname, likely training under local south German masters.¹

Early in his career, he was celebrated for the striking realism of his still life and game paintings on palace walls, often accompanying the Elector on hunts to sketch the scenes.¹

In 1504, he was appointed court painter to Frederick III, Elector of Saxony, serving the Electors for the rest of his life and producing portraits, altarpieces, and even coin designs.¹

In 1508, the Elector granted him the 'winged snake' emblem, which superseded his initials as the official signature on his artworks from that date forward.¹

He was a close friend of Martin Luther, painting over eleven portraits of him, serving as a witness at Luther's wedding, and acting as godfather to Luther's first son.¹

He provided woodcut illustrations for Luther's German translation of the Bible, seeking new ways to convey Lutheran religious concerns through art, moving away from Catholic traditions.¹

Beyond art, he was a successful businessman who owned an apothecary and a printing press, and he held high social status, serving twice as the burgomaster of Wittenberg.¹

He remained loyal to Elector John Frederick after his capture in 1547, pleading with Emperor Charles V for his kind treatment and accompanying the captive Elector into exile in his old age.¹