After a year of closure for renovation, the Musée du Luxembourg has reopened its doors in February. For the first time in France, it proposes a nice retrospective devoted to Lucas Cranach (c. 1472-1553).
Cranach was a versatile artist, engraver and painter of the Germanic Renaissance. The first half of the sixteenth century was marked by his genius and prolific work. His paintings, drawings and engravings show the elegance of his portraits. His work is sensual in a refined style and intense.
The exhibition also allows a better understanding of the place of Cranach in the history of art and his involvement in the society of his time, then impacted by deep political and religious changes. Painter at the court of Saxony, Cranach was involved in the Reformation alongside Martin Luther, of whom he painted unforgettable portraits.
Much appreciated artist, he was able to meet very many commands through a disciplined organization and a keen business sense.
The exhibition has been organized into four themes:
Lucas Cranach, a European artist
Cranach was influenced by Dürer and by Flemish and Italian artists.
The Court, the Netherlands and Italy
Cranach took a diplomatic role. He was court painter to Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony, who recommended him to Marguerite of Austria, governess of the Netherlands, which the court had many artists and humanists. Cranach perfected his art in contact with this brilliant society.
Cranach, painter of feminine beauty
The feminine figures occupy an essential place in his work. Cranach has represented saints, madonnas and goddesses… All his paintings show a great sensuality, mixing eroticism with moral.
Cranach, actor of the Protestant Reformation
Portraitist of talent, Cranach has given us the representations of the leading figure of his time. Supporter of the Protestant Reformation, he participated actively in the dissemination of the new doctrine, realizing a new Protestant iconography, without giving up his commissions from the Catholic Church.
Until May 23rd, 2011 – Musée du Luxembourg, Paris
For more information, please click here : Cranach in his time
Musée du Luxembourg :
- 19 rue de Vaugirard – 75006 Paris
- Métro : Saint-Sulpice (ligne 4), Mabillon (ligne 10)
- RER : Luxembourg (ligne B)
- Opening hours :
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday : 10 :00 – 20 :00
- Friday and Saturday : 10:00 – 22: 00
- Closed on May 1st
- Rates :
- Full rate : 11€ - Concessions: 7.50 euros (valid proof of entitlement required)
- Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children aged 13 to 25): 29.50 euros.
Hotel Britannique Paris, Romantic Paris Hotel, 3* Hotel Paris
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