The Resurrection

Martin Schongauer

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a religious scene. The image features a central figure standing triumphantly with one hand raised and the other holding a staff topped with a cross and a banner. The figure is partially draped in cloth, and radiating lines surround their head. Emerging from a large rectangular structure resembling a stone box or tomb, the figure appears to be rising or resurrected. Surrounding the central figure are several reclining armored figures; some are startled or in various poses of waking. The composition is highly detailed, with precise line work defining the textures of cloth, armor, wood, and stone.