Christ Teaching the Disciples, 2, from Das Plenarium 1517

Hans Schäufelein created this woodcut, “Christ Teaching the Disciples, 2, from Das Plenarium,” sometime around the early 16th century. The composition is neatly arranged in a small format, showcasing a biblical scene with expressive lines and layered color. The composition uses vertical lines which give the work a sense of order and clarity, while the varied textures, achieved through hatching and cross-hatching, add depth and richness to the figures and landscape. Schäufelein divides the scene into distinct zones using color and line work. The figures in the foreground are more detailed and brightly colored, drawing our eyes to their interactions, while the background landscape has lighter colors and is simplified, creating a sense of depth without overwhelming the primary subject. This deliberate arrangement suggests a conscious effort to structure the narrative for didactic purposes. The formal elements create an environment where spiritual teaching becomes visually accessible.