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Pieta, c. 1460. Creator: Unknown
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Pieta, c. 1460. Creator: Unknown
Pieta, c. 1460. Early woodcuts usually illustrate religious subjects for the spiritual edification of a mostly illiterate public. Produced by anonymous craftsmen, these simple, direct images facilitated an intimate dialogue between the individual and the holy figure depicted. This pieta was probably inspired by sculptures of the subject, common in Germany. Printed on a full sheet of paper, the image was hand coloured with watercolour. Remnants of adhesive on the verso and holes caused by insects suggest that it was pasted inside the cover of a book, which preserved it. There are only about 20 northern single-image woodcuts extant. Extraordinary in its large size, fresh colour, and good state of preservation, this sheet is the only known impression of the image
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Media ID 19638421
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Hand Coloured With Watercolour Swabia Southern Germany
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This print showcases the "Pieta" a remarkable piece of art created around 1460 by an unknown artist. Early woodcuts like this one were primarily intended to convey religious messages to a predominantly illiterate audience. Crafted by anonymous craftsmen, these images served as a direct conduit for spiritual connection between individuals and the holy figures depicted. Inspired by prevalent sculptures of the subject in Germany, this particular pieta was printed on a full sheet of paper and meticulously hand coloured with watercolour. Its excellent state of preservation is evident despite remnants of adhesive on its verso and tiny holes caused by insects, suggesting it was once carefully pasted inside the cover of a book for safekeeping. What makes this woodcut truly extraordinary is its large size, vibrant colours that have remained fresh over time, and its rarity as one among only about 20 surviving single-image northern woodcuts from this period. Preserved within The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, this unique impression stands as the sole known example of its kind. Heritage Art/Heritage Images has beautifully captured and reproduced this heritage artwork through photography, allowing viewers to appreciate every intricate detail while immersing themselves in the rich history and cultural significance emanating from southern Germany's Swabia region during the 15th century.
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