Artwork

Saint Goericus

Saint Goericus, by Cornelis Liefrinck I, ink, 1517
Saint Goericus, by Cornelis Liefrinck I, ink, 1517

Saint Goericus is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Cornelis Liefrinck I. It dates from 1517 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint Goericus is a 1517 woodcut print by Cornelis Liefrinck I, depicting a religious figure in a landscape setting.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays Saint Goericus, a tall, thin figure standing under two large trees, holding a long staff. A small town with simple architecture is visible behind the saint, suggesting a connection between the religious figure and the community.

Technique & Style

Executed using the woodcut technique, the design was carved into wood before being printed on laid paper. Characteristic of Renaissance printmaking, this method allowed for widespread dissemination of images. The composition features expressive, swirling leaves and wispy clouds, highlighting the artistic possibilities of the woodcut medium.

History & Provenance

Created in 1517 by Cornelis Liefrinck I, specific details regarding the print's provenance and historical context are not provided in the available information.

Context

Produced during the Renaissance, Saint Goericus reflects the era's religious themes and the prevalence of woodcut printing for devotional and decorative purposes.

Legacy

As a woodcut from the early 16th century, Saint Goericus contributes to the understanding of Renaissance printmaking techniques and the dissemination of religious imagery during that period.

Artist & collection

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