Christus wordt ontkleed 1850 - 1900

This print, Christus wordt ontkleed (Christ Stripped), was made by the Monogrammist AC, using a wood engraving technique. Wood engraving involves cutting a design into the end grain of a block of wood, allowing for very fine detail. The process demands both meticulous skill and intensive labor, as the artist would have had to carve away the negative space around the figures, leaving the lines of the composition to catch the ink. The material’s inherent qualities greatly influenced the artwork's appearance. The stark contrast between light and shadow, the dense network of lines defining forms – all of these are direct consequences of the engraving process. This print not only showcases technical skill but also reflects the socio-economic context of its creation. Wood engraving was a relatively accessible medium, and this print may have been intended for a broad audience, bringing religious imagery into everyday life. By emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context, we can more fully understand the cultural significance of this artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.