Artwork

Christ on the Cross with Angels

Christ on the Cross with Angels, by German 15th Century, ink, 1462
Christ on the Cross with Angels, by German 15th Century, ink, 1462

Christ on the Cross with Angels is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1462 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ on the Cross with Angels is a woodcut print, enhanced with hand coloring, depicting a poignant religious scene. Central to the composition is a simply rendered cross with Christ, surrounded by angels and two praying figures.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a moment of Christian devotion, with Christ’s crucifixion at its core. Angels attend with symbolic objects (chalice, candle), while two robed figures pray below, emphasizing themes of sacrifice, reverence, and spiritual accompaniment.

Technique & Style

Executed in woodcut with bold, hand-applied colors (red lake, brown, yellow, green, black, tan), the work features a flat, precise aesthetic characteristic of early printed art. A plain background directs focus to the central, detailed figures and symbols.

Context

The piece reflects early printing techniques’ influence on religious art dissemination. Its style and subject matter align with the devotional needs and artistic trends of its time, though specific historical context (date, artist) is not provided here.

Legacy

While not individually renowned in the provided information, this work contributes to the broader legacy of woodcut prints in religious art, illustrating how early printing facilitated the widespread circulation of devotional images.

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.