Artwork

Christ on the Cross

Christ on the Cross, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500
Christ on the Cross, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500

Christ on the Cross is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ on the Cross is a hand-colored woodcut print on laid paper, depicting the crucifixion scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows Christ on the cross, flanked by two figures: one, possibly the Virgin Mary, holds a child and wears blue, while the other, likely John the Evangelist, wears red-brown and holds a book.

Technique & Style

The image features flat, bright colors and sharp lines, characteristic of woodcut prints. The lack of shading and the bold coloration are typical of this medium.

Context

The style of this print was common in contemporary books and prints, suggesting it was created for a similar audience.

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.