Portrait of a Man with a Rosary c. 1508

Lucas Cranach the Elder's "Portrait of a Man with a Rosary" (c. 1508) is a Renaissance portrait painting that showcases the artist's signature style. The sitter, a young man with a somber expression, is depicted in a detailed and realistic manner. The subject's black cap and fur-trimmed coat are rendered with meticulous precision, highlighting the era's fashion and emphasizing his social standing. The man's hands, delicately holding a rosary, symbolize piety and spirituality, hinting at the sitter's devotion. This work exemplifies Cranach's mastery in capturing both the outward appearance and inner thoughts of his subjects, creating a captivating portrait of a man at a pivotal moment in his life.