The artwork titled “Portrait of Duke Johann der Beständige of Saxony” was created by Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1509. This portrait, representative of the Northern Renaissance art movement, is a distinguished example of portraiture from that period. It is currently housed in the National Gallery in London, UK.
In the artwork, a solemn and dignified Duke Johann der Beständige of Saxony is depicted against a vibrant green background. The Duke is attired in dark, ornate clothing, adorned with intricate decorative elements and a stylish hat embellished with feathers and jewels. His expression is stern and contemplative, with a pronounced beard framing his face. The details of his attire, including a ring on his finger and embellishments on his clothing, reflect the high status and aristocratic elegance of the sitter. The portrait captures both the personal intensity and the regality of the Duke, emblematic of Cranach the Elder’s meticulous attention to detail and mastery in depicting the human likeness.
