The Church Enthroned

Description

This early state of Daniel Hopfer’s etching was likely printed during the artist’s lifetime, though subsequent identifications of its subject vary. Some believe it depicts Saint Barbara (who displays a chalice and communion wafer in a nearby woodcut by Hans Baldung Grien, 2009.43). Others argue the figure is the Virgin Mary, with the hovering head of Christ and the tiny Crucifixion on the host above her abdomen announcing her pregnancy. Unlike many Japanese prints in this gallery, the image does not refer to a specific cult statue or pilgrimage site. Instead, Mary’s halo, regal throne, and cloth of honor reflect the power of the entire Church.

The Church Enthroned

Daniel Hopfer, I

1490/1536

Accession Number

4181

Medium

Etching in black on cream laid paper

Dimensions

Image/plate/sheet: 22.9 × 15.9 cm (9 1/16 × 6 5/16 in.)

Classification

etching

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Bequest of Mrs. Potter Palmer, Jr.