Christus gezalfd door Maria Magdalena

About this artwork

blad: hoogte 253 mm x breedte 369 mm

Art Historical Context

This striking chiaroscuro woodcut, created by Ugo da Carpi in 1609, captures the intimate biblical moment when Mary Magdalene anoints Christ’s feet. Measuring just 253 by 369 millimeters, the print transforms a familiar devotional subject into a study of light, texture, and quiet emotion. Through layered woodblocks, da Carpi achieves subtle gradations of tone that give the figures a sculptural presence rarely found in single-block prints of the period. The chiaroscuro technique itself is central to the work’s impact. By printing successive blocks in varying shades, da Carpi mimics the effects of drawing or painting, allowing dramatic contrasts between the soft illumination on Christ’s face and the deeper shadows enveloping Magdalene. This method not only heightens the spiritual tenderness of the scene but also demonstrates how printmaking could rival more expensive media in expressive power. Produced in the early seventeenth century, the woodcut reflects the continued demand for accessible religious imagery during the Counter-Reformation. Its modest size made it suitable for private contemplation, bringing a refined artistic experience into homes and small chapels across Europe.

About the Artist

Ugo da Carpi · 1480–1535

Comment on works: Painter; Woodcutter