Solomon's Idolatry
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 shows a crowded scene with a large, robed figure at the center holding a strange object. Around him, smaller figures react—some look up, others point or kneel. The background has a walled city and trees, with a mix of people on a balcony watching. The lines are sharp, and the shading gives a sense of depth. The central figure’s outfit and the odd object he holds might hint at a story about faith or power. The woodcut style uses simple black lines to create drama, with no color. Next, check out the technique: woodcut to see how artists carved these images.
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