Tiende gebod: leg over een ander geen vals getuigenis af

About this artwork

height 108 mm x width 138 mm

Art Historical Context

**Tiende gebod: over een ander geen valsuigenis af** (Tenth Commandment: Thou shalt not bear false witness thy neighbor) is a compact work on paper, measuring just 108 mm high by 138 mm wide, in 1539. Attributed to the renowned German artist Hans Baldung Grien—or possibly produced anonymously in his circle—this piece reflects the religious fervor of the Reformation era in Northern Europe. Baldung, a masterful printmaker influenced by Albrecht Dürer, was known for his intricate woodcuts and engravings that blended moral themes with dramatic visual storytelling. The title directly references the Tenth Commandment from the Bible, underscoring its role as a didactic tool amid the Protestant emphasis on scriptural literacy. In 16th-century Germany, such small-scale paper prints were affordable and widely circulated, serving as visual aids for households, churches, or public spaces to reinforce ethical teachings during a time of religious upheaval. Baldung's technique likely employed fine line work typical of period engravings, allowing for detailed imagery on a modest format. This artwork highlights the power of printmaking to democratize art and faith, making profound moral lessons accessible to everyday viewers. A gem for contemplating Renaissance devotion! (178 words)