The Road to Calvary

Master of the Housebook

Created:
Movement:
1475/80
None
key Notes:
Narrative complexity, Emotional intensity
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
Image: 12.9 × 19.3 cm (5 1/8 × 7 5/8 in.); Sheet, trimmed within platemark: 13 × 19.4 cm (5 1/8 × 7 11/16 in.)
medium:
Drypoint in black on ivory laid paper
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

The Road to Calvary by Master of the Housebook

The Road to Calvary, created by the enigmatic artist known as the Master of the Housebook, is a significant work from the late 15th century, dated around 1475/80. This piece is executed using the drypoint technique, a method that involves incising an image onto a plate with a hard-pointed needle, resulting in a distinctive, rich line quality. The use of black on ivory laid paper enhances the dramatic contrast and depth of the composition. The Master of the Housebook is an anonymous figure, yet his works are pivotal in the transition from medieval to Renaissance art in Northern Europe. His oeuvre is characterized by a keen attention to detail and a narrative style that captures the emotional intensity of religious themes. The Road to Calvary exemplifies these traits, contributing to the broader understanding of printmaking's evolution during this period.

Description of the work:

"The Road to Calvary" by the Master of the Housebook, created circa 1475/80, is a drypoint print executed in black on ivory laid paper, exemplifying the intricate line work characteristic of early Northern Renaissance printmaking. The artwork depicts the biblical scene of Christ carrying the cross, showcasing the artist's attention to detail and narrative composition.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
The Road to Calvary