The Virgin Mary Taking Leave of Christ
1520
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1520
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching shows Mary in a long robe touching Jesus’ hand as he stands near a rocky hill. The background is dark except for a faint city glow behind Jesus. Their faces look calm but sad. This was made with two acid baths on iron. That gives the lines extra depth and soft shadows. Etchings like this were new in the 1500s. Look for Hopfer’s other iron etchings next.
