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Catharina von Bora, wife of Martin Luther
  • Catharina von Bora, wife of Martin Luther

    TitleCatharina von Bora, wife of Martin Luther
  • Technique/ MaterialOil on beech
  • DimensionsDimensions: (h x b) 39 x 26 cm
    Frame: (h x b x dj) 55 x 43 x 3 cm
  • DatingMade c. 1527
  • Artist/Maker Artist: Lucas Cranach d.ä., German, born 1472, dead 1553
  • Depicted PersonKatharina von Bora, German, born 1499, dead 1552
  • CategoryPaintings, Paintings
  • Inventory No.NM 5017
  • AcquisitionDeposit 1887 Söderfors parish
  • ExhibitedNationalmuseum, Room 1622 16th century
  • Description
    Artist/Maker
    Images and media

    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.