Christ Tells His Disciples of the Last Judgment Possibly 1630

Christoph Murer created this small yet powerful woodcut, "Christ Tells His Disciples of the Last Judgment," amidst the religious and social upheavals of the late 16th century. As the Protestant Reformation swept through Europe, artists like Murer navigated the complex terrain of faith, identity, and representation. Here, Christ appears to be addressing a gathering of people from all walks of life; their varied attire suggesting a cross-section of society. The artist uses the printmaking technique to create an accessible devotional image, reflecting the Protestant emphasis on individual faith and the availability of scripture to all. Consider the emotional weight carried by this image for people living through an era of intense religious conflict and social change. Murer’s composition invites viewers to reflect on their own place within the narrative of salvation, and how one’s actions and beliefs determine their ultimate fate. The stark contrast of light and shadow creates a heightened sense of drama, underscoring the gravity of Christ’s message and the individual's responsibility in the face of divine judgment.