Christ Blessing the Virgin by Martin Schongauer

Christ Blessing the Virgin c. 1476

drawing, print, paper, engraving

drawing

toned paper

germany

print

pen sketch

pencil sketch

paper

personal sketchbook

ink drawing experimentation

pen-ink sketch

sketchbook drawing

tattoo art

sketchbook art

engraving

pencil art

Martin Schongauer's "Christ Blessing the Virgin," a small engraving created in 1476, depicts the Virgin Mary, kneeling with clasped hands, receiving a blessing from Christ. The composition is dominated by the figures, framed by a simple architectural background and a pair of angels with wings outstretched. The meticulous detail in the figures' garments and the dramatic use of light and shadow convey a sense of solemnity and piety. The artwork is considered a masterpiece of German Renaissance printmaking and showcases Schongauer's masterful technical skill in engraving.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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The Virgin Mary and Jesus sit enthroned as co-rulers of heaven, though the orb in his hand indicates that he is the ultimate power. Mary joins her hands in prayer as he raises his right hand to bless her. The image is typical of Marian devotion, which saw Mary as a powerful intercessor for those seeking God’s mercy, in times of plague, famine, and other afflictions. Mary was reaching peak popularity in Germany about the time when Schongauer made this exquisite engraving. A generation later, Martin Luther and other German reformers would push back hard against such devotion.