Artwork
Christ on the Cross

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 woodcut print with hand-coloring, featuring a stark depiction of the crucifixion. The composition includes Christ, a grieving woman in blue, and a figure in green and brown, set against a minimal background with gold accents.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates the moment of Christ's crucifixion, emphasizing the suffering of Christ and the emotional response of the onlooking figures, likely representing religious devotion and sorrow.
Technique & Style
Executed using woodcut techniques, the print's visual characteristics include bold, cut lines, flat, bright colors (blue, green, brown, etc.), and strategic use of gold leaf for halos and the crossbar, contributing to a stiff, carved appearance.
Context
The work's style and use of woodcut with hand-coloring suggest it aligns with early printmaking traditions, possibly reflecting medieval or early Renaissance religious art practices.
Legacy
No specific information is provided about the work's impact or legacy, indicating it may not be widely recognized beyond its representative value for its technique and period.
Artist & collection
Artist
This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.






![Studies for Six Figures (sheet from a model book) [recto], by German 15th Century](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/german-15th-century--studies-for-six-figures-sheet-from-a-model-book-recto--4837429e0755bc3f-w320.webp)












