Study of a Lion 1509

Lucas Cranach the Elder made this drawing, *Study of a Lion*, with pen and brown ink on paper. Look closely at the confident lines, layered to create areas of shadow and depth. You get a palpable sense of the artist’s hand at work, building up the image through careful observation and skillful mark-making. The lion's muscular form emerges from the page, as lines create the illusion of three-dimensionality. Consider the social context: While the printed image was becoming increasingly common in Cranach's time, drawings like this remained precious objects, valued for their direct connection to the artist’s creative process. Pen and ink were relatively accessible materials, but the skill required to wield them effectively demanded years of training and practice. By focusing on the materials, the making, and the context, we can appreciate how this drawing transcends its simple subject matter, offering insights into the artist's world and the values of his time.