The Bridegroom Showing the Bride His Land, from a Canticum Canticorum blockbook, 1st edition 1455 - 1465

This woodcut print from a 15th century "Canticum Canticorum" blockbook depicts the scene of a bridegroom showing his bride his land. The print is a fine example of the detailed and expressive illustrations that were typical of blockbooks. This particular scene depicts the bridegroom pointing out his land, which is depicted in the foreground. In the background, various laborers are working in a field, a visual symbol of the bridegroom's wealth and prosperity. The image is notable for its use of fine detail, the stylized figures and expressive lines. The print showcases the ingenuity of the printing methods of the 15th century, and its use of biblical imagery made it an accessible way for people to learn about religious texts.