The Last Judgment, from the Nuremberg Chronicle
German; Workshop of Michael Wolgemut; Workshop of Wilhelm Pleydenwurff
Description
Subject Matter:
This woodcut print is an illustration from the Nuremberg Chronicle showing the Last Judgment of the world. Around 1493, the Nuremberg Chronicle was commissioned by a wealthy entrepreneur from Nuremberg, Germany named Sebald Schreyer. The Chronicle tells the history of the world from the story of creation through the date of publication. Humanist scholar Hartmann Schedel (1440-1514) compiled the text, which drew on already published histories and biblical texts. The Chronicle was initially published in both Latin and German versions, indicating that it was intended for a wider audience, not just clergy or nobility. The letters of the Latin text on the other side of the page are visible through the paper. It was one of the most popular books of the time.
Michael Wolgemut and William Pleydenwurff’s workshop in Nuremberg produced over 1800 illustrations for the Chronicle. In later centuries, early printed images became valuable as works of art on their own. Many were cut out of their original books and sold individually.
The Last Judgment text derives from the biblical book of Revelation. Jesus Christ appears floating above two angels who blow trumpets, signaling the end of the world. Christ is flanked by Mary, his mother, and St. John the Baptist. The saved souls appear below Christ to his right entering the gates of Heaven. A lily next to Christ’s head symbolizes their innocence. To Christ’s left, a sword floats near his head and below devils emerge from the fiery entrance to Hell. Between these two extremes, dead people, awakened by the trumpet, emerge from their graves and are either grabbed by devils or join the parade of saints.
Usage Rights:
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