Herrezen Christus staand tussen heiligen Andreas en Longinus

Herrezen Christus staand tussen heiligen Andreas en Longinus by Andrea Mantegna, executed circa 1470-1474, is a defining example of early Italian Renaissance printmaking. Created on paper, this work showcases Mantegna’s unparalleled skill in rendering figures with sculptural precision, characteristic of his mature style developed while serving the Gonzaga court in Mantua.

Mantegna often utilized print media, like this classification on paper, to disseminate his powerful figurative compositions across Europe. The piece depicts the Risen Christ centrally positioned, flanked by Saint Andrew and Saint Longinus. The use of Longinus, the centurion traditionally associated with the spear that pierced Christ's side, emphasizes the corporeal reality and dramatic narrative of the Resurrection.

This particular work demonstrates Mantegna’s dramatic use of line work to define volume and architectural setting, drawing heavily on classical Roman aesthetics and the newly rediscovered visual language of antiquity. The figures possess a monumental, almost sculptural quality, appearing firmly rooted in space, a hallmark of the Paduan-trained artist who pioneered perspective effects in drawing.

This powerful religious composition is part of the extensive collection of master prints held by the Rijksmuseum. As one of the earliest and most influential figures in Italian engraving, Mantegna’s contribution to the history of prints is immense, establishing standards for subsequent generations of Renaissance artists. Today, high-quality images of this important Renaissance masterwork are often made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring widespread access to the intricate details of this print.