The Baptism of Christ

Lucas Cranach painted ‘The Baptism of Christ’ in the 1530s. Oil on wood. The scene blends traditional religious imagery with the artist’s distinct style. It is held at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

The painting measures 37.8 x 27.8 cm. The dimensions suggest it was intended for personal devotion rather than public display.

The depiction of Christ’s baptism here shows an interplay of light and shadow, typical of Cranach’s work, creating a serene yet dramatic atmosphere.

Cranach was court painter to the Electors of Saxony, producing both religious and mythological subjects. He was closely associated with Martin Luther.

Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio, https://clevelandart.org/art/1953.143