The Sudarium of Saint Veronica 1500 - 1515

Hans Burgkmair created this woodcut, "The Sudarium of Saint Veronica," in Germany during the early 16th century. The image depicts Saint Veronica holding the cloth that she offered to Jesus on the way to his crucifixion; miraculously, the cloth retained an image of his face. The work's cultural significance lies in its connection to religious relics and their perceived power, which was a major theme during the Reformation. The presence of the Papal and Holy Roman Empire crests suggest that it was made to promote these institutions, which were under immense pressure at the time. Burgkmair uses the image to communicate the power of the church and its relics during times of uncertainty. As historians, we look to understand how such images were used and understood in their time. Examining texts and other images from the period can reveal the complex interplay between art, religion, and politics. By exploring these connections, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and institutional contexts that shaped artistic production.