Crucifixion with Four Angels
ca. 1475–1480
Medium
Engraving
Dimensions
11 1/2 x 7 3/4 in. (29.2 x 19.7 cm)
Classification
Prints
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1932
Accession Number
32.67
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the late 15th century, Martin Schongauer, pioneering German engraver and painter from Colmar, created *Crucifixion with Angels* around 1475–1480. This striking engraving captures the pivotal Christian scene of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, flanked by four sorrowful angels who collect his blood in chalices—a poignant motif symbolizing the Eucharist and redemption. Measuring 11½ × 7¾ inches, it exemplifies the Northern Renaissance's blend of late Gothic detail and emerging realism, bridging medieval piety with innovative print techniques. Schongauer's mastery of engraving shines through his in...
About the Artist
Martin Schongauer · 1435–1491
Martin Schongauer, born around 1450–1453 in Colmar, Alsace, emerged from a family of skilled artisans. The third of four or five sons of goldsmith Caspar Schongauer, who had relocated from Augsburg to Colmar around 1440, Martin was immersed in the goldsmith's trade from youth, likely receiving his initial training in his father's workshop—a common path for early engravers. He further honed his ski...