ABSTRACT
Master Francke (fl. 1415–c. 1440) was one of the most significant Northern German painters during the first half of the fifteenth century. He flourished in Hamburg but does not seem to have trained in that city’s workshops. The intense drama of his narrative and his style suggest Netherlandish sources. His innovative iconography, outstanding craftsmanship, lively punch-work and vibrant colouring technique attracted the patronage of sophisticated international traders of the Hanseatic League.
