Artwork

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, oil, 1529
Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg, by Lucas Cranach the Elder, oil, 1529

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach the Elder. It dates from 1529 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created in 1529 by Lucas Cranach the Elder, is a portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, the first wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg. It is part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Magdalena of Saxony standing against a dark background, dressed in ornate attire that signifies her status. Her rich clothing and jewelry convey her position as a member of the nobility.

Technique & Style

The artist skillfully employs chiaroscuro, using light to create a three-dimensional effect on Magdalena's face and hands. Subtle shading and attention to detail in her clothing, particularly the folds of her fabrics, demonstrate the artist's technical proficiency.

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg
Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg, Lucas Cranach the Elder

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas Cranach the Elder

Artist

Lucas Cranach the Elder

Lucas Cranach the Elder was a German Renaissance painter and printmaker in woodcut and engraving.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg?

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg was painted by Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1529.

Where can I see Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg?

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg is held by Art Institute of Chicago.

What movement is Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg?

Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of Magdalena of Saxony, first Wife of Elector Joachim II of Brandenburg are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.