St. Andrew, plate 2 from The Twelve Apostles 1545

Sebald Beham created this engraving of Saint Andrew, one of the Twelve Apostles, around 1545-1550. During the Reformation, artists like Beham navigated the religious and political tensions of the time, often using printmaking to circulate their ideas. Here, Andrew is depicted not as a distant, divine figure, but as an accessible, human one. He's shown carrying the X-shaped cross, which became his symbol, while intently reading a book. Notice how Beham’s detailed lines render the textures of Andrew’s beard and robe, creating a tactile sense of his physical presence. The barefoot apostle's humble attire speaks to a life of simplicity and devotion, inviting viewers to connect with his spiritual journey on a personal level. Ultimately, Beham’s St. Andrew is more than a religious icon, it’s an intimate portrayal that seeks to inspire faith through empathy.