Transfiguratie op de berg Tabor 1602

Cornelis Cort created this engraving, "Transfiguration on Mount Tabor," in the late 16th century. The scene is dramatically split between earthly chaos and divine order. At the top, Christ is radiant, elevated on a cloud with outstretched arms. The linear quality of the engraving technique adds texture and movement to the swirling forms. Below, the apostles are thrown into disarray at the base of the mountain, their gestures exaggerated and emotive. Cort masterfully uses line to create depth and shadow, heightening the sense of drama. Notice how the figures in the foreground are more sharply defined, drawing us into the unfolding narrative. The composition is designed to contrast earthly and divine realms. This use of visual structure to convey spiritual themes is a key element, reflecting the era's exploration of humanism and religious expression. The print invites us to reflect on the tension between the physical and metaphysical worlds.