Saint Nicholas of Myra flanked by praying figures 1455 - 1465

This image of Saint Nicholas of Myra is a woodcut print on paper, made anonymously, and likely intended for widespread distribution. The linear quality of the print, its stark black and white contrast, is a direct result of the woodcut process. The artist would have laboriously carved away the areas of the woodblock that were not meant to receive ink, leaving a raised design. This process, though demanding, allowed for the relatively quick production of multiple copies, making images like this accessible to a broader audience. The texture of the paper, visible beneath the ink, also plays a role. It reminds us of the material reality of the print, its existence as a physical object produced through a combination of artistic skill and mechanical means. The image is simple, but profound. By considering the materials and processes used to create this print, we can appreciate its cultural significance, and the skilled work involved in its creation.