Christ and Nicodemus — German Renaissance Woodcut with MS Monogram

Description

Christ and Nicodemus
German school — First half of the 16th century
Woodcut bearing the MS monogram

This Christ and Nicodemus woodcut depicts a biblical conversation within a carefully detailed architectural setting.

Christ, distinguished by his radiant halo, stands opposite the bearded Nicodemus. Their expressive gestures form the centre of the composition, conveying the exchange of questions and teaching.

To the right, an open book rests on a lectern beside a chair and several other volumes. Arches, buildings and smaller figures in the background create a sense of depth. The clothing, furniture and architecture place the biblical narrative within the visual world of the German Renaissance.

The MS monogram appears within the composition at the lower right.

Printed in black ink on paper, the sheet retains Gothic lettering visible in transmitted light, suggesting that it originated from an illustrated religious volume. The source edition has not been identified.

The print is laid down on an old brown paper backing.

Details:
– School: German.
– Period: first half of the 16th century.
– Technique: woodcut.
– Monogram: MS, printed within the composition.
– Sheet dimensions: 15.6 × 10.3 cm.
– Image dimensions: 14.2 × 10.3 cm.

The image remains clearly legible, with strong black lines and detailed rendering of the figures, drapery and architectural setting.

An appealing addition to a collection of Renaissance prints, biblical imagery or early religious book illustrations.

Please examine all photographs, including the front, old backing and transmitted-light view, which supplement the condition description.