Artwork
Christ is Pierced with the Lance
Christ is Pierced with the Lance is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Augustin Hirschvogel. It dates from 1547 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Christ is Pierced with the Lance is an etching created by Augustin Hirschvogel in 1547. The work is a representation of a biblical scene, showcasing the artist's skill in rendering detailed textures and shading through the etching technique.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a somber moment from the biblical narrative where Christ is pierced with a lance. The scene is characterized by its dramatic intensity, conveying a significant moment in Christian iconography.
Technique & Style
Hirschvogel's expertise in etching is evident in the precise lines and detailed textures achieved in the work. The artist's ability to create nuanced shading and texture highlights the technical challenges and artistic possibilities of etching during the 16th century.
Context
As a member of the Danube School, Hirschvogel was part of a group of 16th-century artists active in Bavaria and Austria, known for their landscape etchings. Hirschvogel's work, including Christ is Pierced with the Lance, reflects his association with this artistic movement.
Artist & collection
Artist
Augustin Hirschvogel (1503 – February 1553) was a German artist, mathematician, and cartographer known primarily for his etchings.
