Art Institute of Chicago

The Church Enthroned

Daniel Hopfer, I

Date

1490/1536

Medium

Etching in black on cream laid paper

Culture

Germany

Department

Prints and Drawings

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

This early state of Daniel Hopfer’s etching was likely printed during the artist’s lifetime, though subsequent identifications of its subject vary. Some believe it depicts Saint Barbara (who displays a chalice and communion wafer in a nearby woodcut by Hans Baldung Grien, 2009.43). Others argue the figure is the Virgin Mary, with the hovering head of Christ and the tiny Crucifixion on the host above her abdomen announcing her pregnancy. Unlike many Japanese prints in this gallery, the image does not refer to a specific cult statue or pilgrimage site. Instead, Mary’s halo, regal throne, and cloth of honor reflect the power of the entire Church.

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