The Death of Ananias, Surrounded by Apostles (1518, Met-Objekt 5951)
Original title: The death of Ananias, surrounded by Apostles
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many contemporary prints of the same subject, this 1518 chiaroscuro woodcut by Ugo da Carpi places the dying Ananias amid a dense crowd of apostles. Printed in brown tones from three woodblocks, it measures 24.7 × 37.8 cm.
Description
Ananias lies on the ground in the foreground, surrounded by apostles who stand or kneel. Their garments recall ancient Roman dress. Behind the group, a temple-like space opens up with further figures. The layout draws the eye toward the center, where the fallen man lies; the brown tones and the incoming light separate the bodies from the ground and give the view depth.
Context
Ugo da Carpi, an Italian printmaker, is best known for his chiaroscuro woodcuts. This sheet was made in 1518, during the Renaissance, when artists increasingly experimented with means of light and shadow. It is based on the story in the Acts of the Apostles (5:1–11), in which Ananias dies for deceit. Da Carpi was among the first to use this technique in Italy.
Impact
Because the death of Ananias is brought so close to the viewer, the subject feels dramatic and urgent. The light, rendered in brown, creates a solemn, almost sacred mood. Clearly separated figures recede into depth and make the space tangible.
Technique
Three woodblocks with brown tones were used for printing. This chiaroscuro method allowed for light-and-dark effects and textures reminiscent of a drawing. The blocks were precisely superimposed until the desired gradation of tones appeared on the paper.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)