The Man of Sorrows between Two Angels (Schr. 900) 15th century

This small, anonymous woodcut presents Christ as the Man of Sorrows, flanked by two angels. The image carries a potent message about suffering, sacrifice, and redemption, deeply embedded within the religious and social context of its time. Likely produced in Europe, possibly Germany, during the late Middle Ages or early Renaissance, this image reflects a period of intense religious devotion, social upheaval, and institutional change within the Church. The choice to depict Christ in this way, as a figure of suffering, speaks to the period's fascination with martyrdom and empathy, but it also carries undertones of social critique. Christ's suffering invites a profound reflection on the social structures of the time. To fully understand this artwork, we can delve into historical texts, theological treatises, and social histories. By examining these resources, we can grasp the intricate relationship between art, society, and the institutions that shaped its creation and reception.