The Man of Sorrows between the Virgin and Saint John (Schr. 996) 15th century

This woodcut, "The Man of Sorrows," was created by an anonymous artist using a relief printing technique. The artist carved an image into a block of wood, likely using knives and gouges, then applied ink to the remaining raised surface and pressed it onto paper. The stark lines and flat areas of color are inherent to the medium of woodcut, and the artist has cleverly used these to convey texture and emotion. Note the minute droplets of Christ's blood. The process is laborious, demanding skill to create fine details. Woodcut was a relatively accessible medium, and this print would have been made in multiples, distributed widely to promote religious devotion. Inexpensive prints like this played a crucial role in spreading religious imagery and ideas among a broader population. By understanding the material and process of its creation, we can appreciate the social and cultural significance of this modest but powerful work. It’s a reminder that art isn't just about individual genius, but about collective effort and shared experience.