Martyrdom of St. Erasmus after the Master of St. Erasmus (Schr. 2621) 15th century

This 15th-century woodcut depicts the martyrdom of Saint Erasmus, a popular subject in medieval art. The anonymous artist, working after a known master, uses stark black outlines and hand-painted washes of color to create a dramatic scene of Saint Erasmus's death. His body is contorted as he is stretched on a windlass, while three figures watch on, with one holding a large staff. The detail of the contorted body and the starkness of the image would have served as a potent reminder of the saint's suffering for his faith. This piece offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the late Middle Ages, highlighting the power of religious imagery and the enduring popularity of saintly narratives.