Christ on the Cross 1631 - 1670

This print of Christ on the Cross was made by an anonymous artist, but there are clues that point to its social and institutional context. Prints like this one served a vital purpose in disseminating religious ideas, and offering a focus for private devotion across Europe. The scene depicts the culmination of Christ’s Passion. We see the figure of Mary Magdalene in the lower right, kneeling at the foot of the cross. This image creates meaning through visual codes, such as the halo around Mary's head signifying her sanctity. The Latin inscription above the image and on the cross indicates that it was likely made for a learned audience familiar with Christian scripture and the Classics. The historian's role is to piece together the story of this artwork. By looking at the paper it’s printed on, the style of engraving, and the use of Latin, we can learn about the image's purpose, the artist’s intentions, and its likely audience.