An Elaborate Altar with the Resurrection of Christ and the Martyrdom of Saint Andrew 1570 - 1580

This elaborate altar design with the Resurrection of Christ and the Martyrdom of Saint Andrew was made by Friedrich Sustris, likely in the late 16th century. Sustris worked with pen and black ink to create this drawing on paper. The stark contrast of black ink on the white paper emphasizes the architectural elements and intricate details of the altar. Each line meticulously drawn contributes to the overall impression of grandeur and solemnity. The altar is adorned with classical motifs, such as statues, columns, and garlands. The scenes of Christ's resurrection and Saint Andrew's martyrdom are rendered with dramatic flair, capturing the emotional intensity of these religious events. Sustris likely drew this for presentation to a wealthy client who would commission a 3-D version of the altar. Drawings like these were not merely preparatory sketches. They served as crucial tools for negotiating with patrons and showcasing the artist's skill. This underscores the importance of patronage in shaping artistic production during the Renaissance and the considerable skill involved in the design process.