Christ on the Cross with Angels 1460 - 1465

This representation of Christ on the Cross with Angels was created by an anonymous artist, using ink and watercolour on paper. The image presents Christ, the Virgin Mary, and Saint John as the main figures in the composition with angels collecting Christ's blood. The art was likely produced in Germany, probably during the 15th century, given the stylistic conventions it employs. Note how the sun and moon are used to frame Christ on the cross, with the sun representing God, and the moon representing the Church. The piece reflects the religious and social climate of its time. Consider the role of the Church in medieval society, and how art served as a tool for religious instruction and devotion. This watercolour painting makes use of Christian iconography to construct meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. As art historians, we use a variety of research resources, such as historical documents and cultural studies, to better understand the relationship between art and its social and institutional context.