Apostel Andreas met kruis 1517 - 1527

Crafted by Marcantonio Raimondi, around the 16th century, this engraving at the Rijksmuseum depicts the Apostle Andrew with his iconic cross. The composition centres on the Apostle, whose figure is meticulously rendered using fine, precise lines. The texture achieved through hatching and cross-hatching not only defines form but also contributes a palpable sense of depth and weight, especially noticeable in the drapery and the wooden cross. Semiotically, the cross is not merely a structural element but the chief signifier of Andrew's martyrdom and faith. The formal construction of the engraving invites us to consider the interplay between form and meaning, where the Apostle's steadfast bearing and the imposing cross evoke themes of sacrifice and devotion. Raimondi's masterful manipulation of line and tone elevates the work beyond a simple depiction, turning it into a profound visual statement about belief and the burdens of faith.