M 25 C Ir habt mich bekleit

About this artwork

diameter 56 mm

Art Historical Context

Georg Pencz'sM 25 C Ir habt mich bekleit* (4) is a delicate engraving, measuring just 56 mm in diameter—a compact circular format ideal for intimate study or personal devotion. As one of the renowned Nuremberg Little Masters, Pencz excelled in the Northern Renaissance tradition of small-scale printmaking, producing intricate works that rivaled painting in detail despite their modest size. This piece exemplifies the technical virtuosity of 16th-century engraving, where fine lines and cross-hatching create depth and texture on copper plates. Pencz, influenced by Albrecht Dürer, brought humanist precision to his prints, often exploring biblical themes. The title, an archaic German phrase meaning "You have clothed me," evokes Matthew 25:36 from the Last Judgment, symbolizing acts of charity toward Christ disguised as the needy—a poignant reminder of Renaissance spirituality amid Reformation tensions. In museums, such engravings highlight the democratizing power of printmaking, making high art accessible beyond elite patrons. Marvel at how Pencz packs profound moral depth into this tiny gem!

About the Artist

Georg Pencz · 1490–1550

Comment on works: Religious; History; Portraits