The Sermon of St.John the Baptist 1516

This 1516 woodcut by Lucas Cranach the Elder depicts the iconic scene of St. John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness. The composition emphasizes the dramatic contrast between John's simple, austere figure and the densely packed crowd of listeners, a stark reminder of his message of repentance. Cranach's meticulous detail extends to the natural world, with a rich tapestry of trees and foliage surrounding the scene. Notably, the dog at the bottom of the image symbolizes both faithfulness and the wildness of the natural world. This powerful image is a prime example of Cranach's masterful use of the woodcut medium, a testament to his skill and the enduring legacy of his artistic vision.