Artwork

Life of the Virgin: High Priest Rejecting the Offering of Joachim

Life of the Virgin: High Priest Rejecting the Offering of Joachim, by Israhel van Meckenem, 1493
Life of the Virgin: High Priest Rejecting the Offering of Joachim, by Israhel van Meckenem, 1493

Life of the Virgin: High Priest Rejecting the Offering of Joachim is a print by the Renaissance artist Israhel van Meckenem. It dates from 1493 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Life of the Virgin: High Priest Rejecting the Offering of Joachim is a print created by Israhel van Meckenem around 1493. It is part of a series illustrating the life of the Virgin Mary.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a biblical scene in which a high priest rejects an offering from Joachim. The scene is set in a church or temple and features several figures, including a central figure holding a small box and a priest refusing it.

Technique & Style

The engraving is characterized by sharp lines and deep shadows, which create a sense of depth and dimensionality. The artist's use of detail and texture adds to the overall visual effect.

History & Provenance

Israhel van Meckenem was a prolific German engraver and goldsmith active from 1465 to 1503. He produced over 620 engravings, many of which were adaptations of other artists' works.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Israhel van Meckenem

Artist

Israhel van Meckenem

Israhel van Meckenem (c. 1445 – 10 November 1503), also known as Israhel van Meckenem the Younger, was a German printmaker and goldsmith, perhaps of a Dutch family origin. He was the most prolific engraver of the…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.