Artwork
The Agony in the Garden
The Agony in the Garden is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Martin Schongauer. It dates from 1480 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Agony in the Garden is an engraving created by Martin Schongauer around 1480. It is one of 116 engravings produced by the artist, who was active in Colmar and Breisach.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a night scene in a rocky, wooded area, showing Christ and his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. Christ kneels in prayer, an angel appears to him, and the disciples sleep or watch nearby, conveying a moment of emotional intensity.
Technique & Style
Schongauer's engraving is characterized by fine lines that create deep shadows and texture, demonstrating his technical skill and ability to convey emotional depth through intricate linework. The level of precision is typical of engravings from this period.
History & Provenance
Martin Schongauer, born between 1450 and 1453, was a significant Alsatian engraver and painter. He is considered the most important printmaker north of the Alps before Albrecht Dürer, and his works are marked with his distinctive monogram.
Artist & collection
Artist
Martin Schongauer, also known as Martin Schön or Hübsch Martin by his contemporaries, was an Alsatian engraver and painter.
