Artwork

Christ between Maria and John

Christ between Maria and John, by German 15th Century, ink, 1490
Christ between Maria and John, by German 15th Century, ink, 1490

Christ between Maria and John is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1490 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ between Maria and John is a small woodcut print depicting a serene scene of Jesus flanked by Mary and John the Baptist. Characterized by sharp lines and a restrained color palette, the work features distinct attire for each figure: Mary in blue, John in red, and Jesus in white with a subtle halo.

Subject & Meaning

The subject centers on the spiritual connection between Jesus, Mary, and John the Baptist, conveyed through their calm, serious expressions. The composition emphasizes harmony and solemnity, typical of religious themes in 15th-century art.

Technique & Style

Executed in woodcut, a technique allowing for mass production, the print showcases sharp, defined lines indicative of the medium. The artist's use of woodcut facilitated the widespread dissemination of the image.

History & Provenance

Created in the 1400s, this woodcut leveraged the efficiency of its medium to rapidly spread religious imagery during its time. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Emerging in the 15th century, this work aligns with the era's religious art trends. Woodcuts like this played a crucial role in making religious scenes accessible to a broader audience due to their affordability and speed of production.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.