Opstanding van Christus 1629

This is Christoffel van Sichem II’s ‘Resurrection of Christ,’ a woodcut made in the early 17th century. Sichem has used a block of wood to carve the image, cutting away the areas that will remain white and leaving the lines to be inked and printed. The material quality of the wood is crucial here. The end grain gives a very hard surface, capable of holding fine detail, with crisp lines and a high contrast between light and dark. The texture and weight of the paper also play a role, absorbing the ink to create a rich, tactile surface. The process of woodcutting is labor-intensive, requiring skill and patience to carve the intricate design. Sichem was trained in the traditions of printmaking, and his work reflects the social and cultural values of his time. Through careful arrangement, he has imbued the artwork with symbolism, using light and shadow to convey the drama and emotion of the scene. The linear quality of the woodcut lends itself well to the graphic style of the time, emphasizing the importance of line and form in creating a powerful visual narrative. Paying attention to the material, process, and context of this artwork allows us to appreciate the skill and artistry involved in its creation.