A continuation of our discussion of the Northern Renaissance, Module 5 discusses artwork within the backdrop of the the Protestant Reformation. As it began to spread throughout northern Europe, many religious icons were destroyed because of their suggested religious connotations. The invention of the printing press gave way to many woodcuts and engravings were produced to educate the masses and disseminate Protestant theology. France and Spain remained both predominantly Catholic countries even though the Protestant Reformation held a powerful sway over much of northern Europe.

Located in Munich, Germany, The Alte Pinakothek museum contains a thorough collection of Western art from the middle ages through the twenty first century. One of its most famous works is Durer's Self Portrait painted in 1500. Explore the museum and discover the building’s unique history!

Virtually visit the Victoria and Albert Museum. This London museum boasts an impressive collection of Renaissance works-including this engraving by Albrecht Durer, Melencolia I. In addition to many famous paintings, the Victoria and Albert museum also has a codex by Leonardo da Vinci and Renaissance-era personal items including gloves and a hunting crossbow.

This painting by Hans Holbein the Younger displays an older Henry VIII, the infamous and fierce Tudor monarch. Born in Greenwich Palace, Henry VIII's portrait is a stirring reminder of the intricacy and detail of royal wardrobes and the process of royal portraiture.

Take a closer look at Hieronymous Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights, located at the Prado Museum in Madrid, Spain. The interactive webpage allows you to take an up-close look at the altarpiece and provides several multimedia links to learn more!