The artwork titled “John Frederick the Magnanimous, Elector of Saxony” was created by Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1535 in Germany. This oil on panel portrait, belonging to the Northern Renaissance art movement, measures 13.8 x 19.8 cm. It is currently housed at Friedenstein Castle in Gotha, Germany. This work falls under the genre of portraiture.
The artwork presents a sitting portrait of John Frederick the Magnanimous, Elector of Saxony. Rendered with precise detail characteristic of the Northern Renaissance, the subject is depicted with a solemn expression, indicative of his noble standing and likely political significance. He is adorned in a richly embroidered fur coat and a gold chain, portraying an image of wealth and authority. The soft, light background contrasts with the more robust features and attire of the subject, enhancing his prominence within the composition. The texture in the fabric, meticulous detailing in the jewelry, and the subject’s composed demeanor showcase Cranach’s skillful artistry and deep understanding of portraiture during this period.
