Johannes 1539

light pencil work

pen illustration

pen sketch

pencil sketch

junji ito style

personal sketchbook

ink drawing experimentation

pen-ink sketch

limited contrast and shading

sketchbook drawing

Heinrich Aldegrever's "Johannes" is a 1539 engraving that depicts the apostle John seated on clouds, surrounded by a radiant light. His gaze is fixed on a vision of the Virgin Mary and child above him, signifying his spiritual inspiration. A large eagle sits next to him, a symbol of his powerful vision and writing. The intricate detail and masterful use of light and shadow within this small work (117 mm x 76 mm) showcase Aldegrever's skill as a printmaker during the German Renaissance. The piece currently resides at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands.