The Flagellation c. 1480

Israhel van Meckenem created this engraving of “The Flagellation” in the late 15th century. It depicts the biblical scene of Christ's flogging before his crucifixion, set within an elaborately rendered interior. Made in Germany, this work reflects the intersection of religious devotion and emerging print culture. The detailed architectural space and the expressive figures show the artist's technical skill, but we must remember that printmaking in this period was deeply connected to the commercialization of images. Van Meckenem was a goldsmith and printmaker, and his prints were sold at markets and fairs, meaning this image had a broad reach across social classes. By examining the printmaking industry of the time, we can better understand how religious narratives were disseminated and consumed. In doing so, we appreciate the role of art as something contingent on its social and institutional context, as well as the ways that images shape social norms.