The Agony in the Garden
1512
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From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1512
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This woodcut depicts a dramatic scene from the Bible, with Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. He is shown kneeling on a rock, surrounded by his disciples, who are sleeping. An angel appears above him, holding a cup and a sword. The scene is set against a dark and moody background, with trees and rocks looming in the shadows. The woodcut is rendered in intricate detail, with fine lines and textures that give the image a sense of depth and dimensionality. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of drama and tension, highlighting the emotional intensity of the scene. For more on the Renaissance movement, which influenced this work, see the Renaissance.