Apostel Andreas c. 1470 - 1491

Curator: Martin Schongauer’s engraving, “Apostle Andrew,” dating back to the late 15th century, resides here at the Rijksmuseum. It depicts the saint with his characteristic symbol, the saltire, or the X-shaped cross. Editor: Oh, he's intensely focused! Looks like someone caught him in a really profound moment, nose in a book while lugging what looks like his own personal construction project. Heavy stuff, literally. Curator: Absolutely. The weight he carries, both physically with the cross and symbolically with the book, is a powerful testament to his faith and purpose, aligning perfectly with historical representations of apostles and saints from that period, a key transitional moment we now categorize as Northern Renaissance. The engraving exemplifies Schongauer’s mastery of line, creating a dynamic play of light and shadow, a subtle revolt against the conventions of his day. Editor: Dynamic is a great word for it. The contrast, so stark – the crisp lines of the book, the craggy texture of the cross…and that flowing robe. Does anyone actually wear those, and manage to read a book, all while lugging timber? And it's interesting to me that you call it dynamic, considering there is also something meditative about it, something calming. What do you think? Curator: Precisely, this speaks volumes about Schongauer’s innovative style, seamlessly blending the earthy realities with the ethereal or symbolic, and it reveals a fascinating intersection between spiritual devotion and material reality, challenging social structures in implicit, though often overlooked, ways. His influence on later engravers is undeniable. The meticulous detail really makes one appreciate the labor of faith. Editor: A labor of faith, I like that! Now I'm seeing his quiet strength…that steady gaze. I still can't get over that cross he is hauling around...what if we all had to carry the tools of our trade with us at all times? Curator: Food for thought indeed! Editor: Sure is. What an introspective journey sparked by some very determined lines, right? Curator: Exactly. I hope we've invited a fresh perspective for our listeners on this incredible, evocative image by Martin Schongauer.