O quam tristis et afflicta ...
1586
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1586
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Wierix’s engraving shows Mary in blue robes, head bowed, holding Jesus after his death. Her face is lined with sorrow. The light falls hard on her skin, making every fold of cloth and tear stand out. This isn’t just a sad picture. It uses tiny, repeated lines—cross-hatching—to make shadows feel deep and real. The paper has a rough edge, like it was printed long ago. Look next at Wierix, Hieronymus.
