On display
Wikimedia Commons

Catharina von Bora, wife of Martin Luther

Lucas Cranach d.ä. (1472 - 1553)

Artist/Maker

DatesMade: Made c. 1527

Material / Technique

Oil on beech

Dimensionsh x w: Mått 39 x 26 cm h x w x d: Ram 55 x 43 x 3 cm

Inventory numberNM 5017

AcqusitionDeposit 1887 Söderfors parish

Other titlesTitle (sv): Katharina von Bora (1499-1552), Martin Luthers hustru Title (en): Catharina von Bora, wife of Martin Luther Label (sv): Katharina von Bora, gift med Martin Luther Label (en): Katharina von Bora, married to Martin Luther

DescriptionDescription: Cranach’s portrait of Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora spread through copies. They have played a decisive role in the perception of the church reformer as harsh, humourless and aloof. However, according to contemporary sources, Luther was well aware of this world and had a drastic sense of humour, while being a profound believer and a learned theologian. The portrait of Luther carries Cranach’s signature, a winged dragon.

Exhibited

Depicted Person

Motif categoryPortrait

Collection

MaterialOil paint, Wood

TechniquePainting

Keyword