The Last Judgment
1569
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1569
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This print is packed with swirling bodies—some rising, some falling, all tangled in dramatic motion. At the center, a figure sits on a throne surrounded by clouds, while angels and demons pull people toward heaven or hell. The top shows a cross with a crowned figure, and the bottom has a horn-blowing angel. Every inch is filled with twisting limbs, expressions of fear or triumph, and a chaotic energy. The artist copied this scene from a famous fresco by Michelangelo, but made it into a print so others could own it. Notice how the lines create depth, even though it’s just black and white. Look up chiaroscuro next to see how light and shadow shape drama in art.
