Artwork

Saint Sebaldus and Saint Lawrence

Saint Sebaldus and Saint Lawrence, by German 15th Century, ink, 1480
Saint Sebaldus and Saint Lawrence, by German 15th Century, ink, 1480

Saint Sebaldus and Saint Lawrence is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1480 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint Sebaldus and Saint Lawrence is a hand-colored woodcut print depicting two saints flanking a prominent coat of arms, set against an off-white background with a red border.

Subject & Meaning

The print features Saint Sebaldus (left, in blue, with a staff) and Saint Lawrence (right, in red, holding a palm branch), symbolizing their martyrdom and spiritual virtues. The central coat of arms, adorned with a crowned black eagle on yellow, and the two smaller shields below, indicate a noble or familial affiliation.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the work's lines and forms were carved into wood before printing. Subsequent hand-coloring in blue, red, yellow, green, and orange adds depth and vibrancy, characteristic of Renaissance-era printmaking techniques.

Context

Created during the Renaissance, this piece reflects the period's revival of classical themes and the increased popularity of religious imagery among the nobility and emerging middle class.

History & Provenance

No specific historical ownership or creation date is provided for this woodcut, highlighting the need for further research into its provenance and exact production timeline.

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.