Artwork

The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows: St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus

The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows:  St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus, by Israhel van Meckenem, 1485
The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows:  St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus, by Israhel van Meckenem, 1485

The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows: St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus is a print by the Renaissance artist Israhel van Meckenem. It dates from 1485 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows: St.

About this work

Overview

The Twelve Apostles at Gothic Windows: St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus is an engraving created by Israhel van Meckenem around 1485. It is one of over 620 prints produced by this prolific German printmaker and goldsmith.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts St. Matthias and St. Judas Thaddaeus, two Christian apostles, standing within ornate Gothic windows. Their solemn expressions and traditional attire underscore their religious significance.

Technique & Style

The print showcases van Meckenem's skillful use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits contrasts between light and dark to create depth and volume. The detailed rendering of the apostles' robes and the Gothic architecture reflects the artistic characteristics of Northern Europe during the late 15th century.

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.