De evangelist Lucas 1541

"De evangelist Lucas," a small woodcut by German artist Sebald Beham, depicts Saint Luke, the evangelist. It is a fine example of German Renaissance art, created in 1541. Saint Luke is traditionally associated with the ox, which is depicted lying at his feet. Saint Luke holds two open books, symbolizing his role as a writer of the Gospels. The image is finely detailed and includes Beham's signature "SB," visible on a small block near the bottom of the composition. The piece is part of the Rijksmuseum collection, and is an excellent example of the artistry of Sebald Beham.