The Annihilation of the Beast; The Capture and Incarceration of the Beast from an Apocalypse blockbook, 2nd edition 1440 - 1450

This hand-colored woodcut, “The Annihilation of the Beast,” comes from a 15th-century blockbook depicting the Apocalypse. It presents a visualized narrative of the Book of Revelation, tapping into the religious fervor and anxieties of the late medieval period. The image is divided into registers, a common visual strategy for medieval art. At the top, soldiers on horseback capture a beast, while below, angels perform acts of divine justice. Produced in Germany, this work reflects the period's deep religious beliefs and the ever-present fear of divine retribution, beliefs that are historically situated within the power structures of the Church. The printing and distribution of such images also reflect the rise of a proto-capitalist print culture and increasing literacy. Understanding this blockbook requires us to delve into the religious, social, and economic history of the late Middle Ages. Resources such as theological treatises, economic records, and social histories can further illuminate the meaning of this powerful image.