Artwork
Ornament with the Tree of Jesse
Ornament with the Tree of Jesse is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Israhel van Meckenem. It dates from 1474 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Ornament with the Tree of Jesse is an engraving created by Israhel van Meckenem in 1474. It is a characteristic example of the artist's work, showcasing his skill in densely populated compositions.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the Tree of Jesse, a biblical motif representing the genealogy of Christ. The scene is crowded with figures, including angels, saints, and ancestors of Christ, arranged around a central tree. Various narrative elements are incorporated within the intricate design.
Technique & Style
The work is executed in engraving, a technique involving the incision of lines into a metal plate, which are then printed. Van Meckenem's engraving is notable for its fine detail and complex composition, reflecting his expertise as a goldsmith and printmaker.
History & Provenance
Israhel van Meckenem was a prolific German printmaker active from 1465 to 1503, producing over 620 prints during his career. Many of his works, including Ornament with the Tree of Jesse, were adaptations or interpretations of existing compositions, contributing to the development of Northern European printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
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…
