St. Agnes (copy) 1512 - 1600

Hans Baldung created this woodcut of Saint Agnes in the early 16th century. The print testifies to the period's religious devotion and its burgeoning print culture. Made in Germany, this image reflects a time of significant religious and social upheaval, with the rise of the Reformation challenging established church doctrine and artistic conventions. Consider the role of printed images like this one in disseminating religious ideas. Notice how Agnes is depicted with a halo, the lamb, her traditional attribute, and fashionable dress. Baldung presents a saint who is both holy and contemporary. The production of such prints was facilitated by the development of printing technology and the growth of a market for religious images. This print would have served as a personal devotional object and a symbol of faith during a turbulent time. We can research historical archives, religious texts, and art market records to better understand the social role and cultural impact of this print.