Dedication: Ich bin die Auferstehung und das Leben (I am the resurrection and the life)

Ferdinand Olivier

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an ornate, religious-themed tableau. The image is intricately detailed, featuring central biblical scenes surrounded by text and decorative motifs. The central focus depicts figures from scriptural stories, possibly saints or religious icons, arranged in a symbolic tree or lineage with inscribed names. The left and right panels house figures in traditional attire, symbolizing wise or holy individuals. The linework and shading provide depth and texture, with elements resembling those seen in medieval religious manuscripts or stained glass windows. The borders include architectural motifs framing the scene with medieval design elements. In the bottom center, there is a script citation, "ich bin die auferstehung und das leben. Joh. XI. 25," translating to "I am the resurrection and the life," a quote attributed to a passage from the Gospel of John in the New Testament.