Christ on the Cross, from the series "Piccoli Santi" (Small Saints) 1495 - 1505

"Christ on the Cross" is an engraving made by Marcantonio Raimondi, a Renaissance artist, sometime between 1510 and 1520. Raimondi was instrumental in establishing printmaking as a means to disseminate art, allowing his works to reach a wider audience. The image depicts a nude Christ nailed to the cross, set against a mountainous landscape with a cloudy sky. Though small in scale, its emotional impact is significant, inviting viewers to contemplate the suffering and sacrifice of Christ. The choice to depict Christ nearly nude underscores his vulnerability, challenging the traditional glorification of religious figures. As you reflect on this engraving, consider how it speaks to the intersections of faith, representation, and the human body, inviting us to reflect on the personal and collective dimensions of faith.