The Murder of the Children of Bethel 1547

"The Murder of the Children of Bethel" is a 1547 woodcut by German artist Augustin Hirschvogel. It depicts the biblical story of a she-bear sent by God to maul children who mocked the prophet Elisha. The scene is rendered with detailed perspective and intricate linework, characteristic of Hirschvogel's style. The woodcut serves as a cautionary tale, reminding viewers of the consequences of disrespecting religious figures. The dramatic composition and the use of graphic imagery evoke a sense of fear and awe, emphasizing the power of divine retribution.