Susanna and the Elders by Hans Schäufelein

Susanna and the Elders 1536

print, woodcut

landscape illustration sketch

ink drawing

germany

pen drawing

mechanical pen drawing

print

pen illustration

pen sketch

ink line art

linework heavy

pen-ink sketch

woodcut

pen work

"Susanna and the Elders" is a 1536 woodcut by German artist Hans Schäufelein. The print depicts the biblical story of Susanna, a young woman falsely accused of adultery by two elders, who were motivated by lust. Schäufelein skillfully uses the woodcut medium to illustrate the scene with great detail. The architecture in the background contrasts with the lush foliage, creating a dramatic backdrop for the central characters. The print's small scale and intricate details reflect the meticulous craftsmanship of the Renaissance era and appeal to art-lovers.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Using drawing skills honed in Albrecht Dürer's workshop, Hans Schäufelein focused on justice for Susanna. Prompted by God, Daniel asks each elder separately under which tree she committed her alleged adultery. When they gave differing answers, their lie was exposed. Schäufelein compressed the narrative to include, clockwise from back right: the elders entering the garden, Daniel questioning Susanna, her maids, the courtroom, and the elders being put to death.