Who painted The Emblem?

The Emblem was painted by Michael Wolgemut in 1493.

Where can I see The Emblem?

The Emblem is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Emblem?

The Emblem is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Emblem

Michael Wolgemut , 1493

The Emblem is a print by the Renaissance artist Michael Wolgemut. It dates from 1493 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This woodcut depicts God enthroned, surrounded by clouds and vines, as He speaks the world into existence.

About this work

Overview

This woodcut depicts God enthroned, surrounded by clouds and vines, as He speaks the world into existence. It is one of over 1,000 illustrations in the Nuremberg Chronicle, an early printed book chronicling Christian history.

Subject & Meaning

The image illustrates God's eternal power and authority over the universe, symbolized by the orb He holds. The accompanying Psalm 22 quote emphasizes His creative command: 'He spoke and they were made.'

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the piece features bold, simple lines, a necessity of the hand-carving process where every mark was deliberate. This style is characteristic of early printed book illustrations.

History & Provenance

The woodcut is part of the Nuremberg Chronicle, a seminal early printed book narrating the Christian world's history. The Chronicle itself is a product of the burgeoning printing technology of its time.

Context

Created within the context of early Christian printing, this work reflects the period's religious narratives and the technological limitations and aesthetics of woodcut illustrations in books.