Christ on the Cross with Mary and Saint John c. 1470 - 1480

This small, yet powerful, woodcut depicts the crucifixion of Christ with Mary and Saint John mourning at his feet. Created by an anonymous artist in the late 15th century, the piece showcases the stark realities of Christ's sacrifice through its simple yet expressive lines. The image exemplifies the traditional iconography of the subject, with Christ positioned centrally on the cross, his suffering emphasized by blood drops. The inclusion of a skull at the base of the cross, representing Adam's skull, further emphasizes the theme of redemption and Christ's sacrifice. This artwork, now part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, offers a glimpse into the religious devotion of the time.