The Lamentation c. 1460

This piece, titled ‘The Lamentation,’ is a woodcut with added hand coloring, made by an anonymous artist. The scene depicts the body of Christ being mourned after the crucifixion. This image invites reflection on themes of suffering, loss, and compassion. The figures surrounding Christ are often interpreted as Mary, his mother, Mary Magdalene, and other followers. The emotional weight of the scene is palpable; the mourners are rendered with care, their grief etched into their faces and postures. It speaks to the common human experience of bereavement and offers a space for empathy. The cultural context of the image lies in its religious narrative, but it also transcends these boundaries by addressing universal themes. Consider how the anonymity of the artist influences your reception of this intensely personal scene. Without a known creator, does the image become a collective expression of faith and mourning?