Ivoren boekomslag van een evangeliarium met een reliëf van Christus aan het kruis before 1876

This is an ivory book cover of a Gospel book with a relief of Christ on the Cross, made by Anselm Schmitz, who lived from 1831 to 1903. The cross looms large in Christian theology. As a symbol it represents suffering, sacrifice, redemption, and love. Carved in ivory it becomes a precious artifact. The relief reflects the artist's and the patron’s values and beliefs. The traditional iconography invites contemplation on these themes. Consider this work in relation to the artist's identity and religious context. Anselm Schmitz was a Benedictine monk and artist associated with the Abbey of Maria Laach in Germany. He lived at a time when religious art was experiencing a revival, where artists sought to revitalize Christian imagery and traditions in the 19th century. Ultimately, this artwork is a personal expression of faith and a representation of a shared cultural narrative.