Christ Talking about his Return to the Father, from Das Plenarium 1517

Hans Schäufelein created this woodcut, Christ Talking about his Return to the Father, as part of Das Plenarium, a German prayer book during the early 16th century. Schäufelein lived during the Reformation; a tumultuous time of religious and social upheaval, and his artistic choices reflect the period's complex relationship with faith. The print depicts Christ, surrounded by followers, gesturing towards God in the sky. The use of woodcut, a more accessible medium, allowed for wider distribution of religious imagery, catering to a growing desire for personal engagement with faith. It's interesting to note how Schäufelein navigates traditional religious narratives within this changing cultural landscape. While he adheres to established iconographic elements, the print also subtly emphasizes the emotional connection between Christ and his followers. This work invites us to reflect on the intersection of faith, identity, and accessibility in a time of great transformation.