Crucifixion.
Full-page miniature on leaf from Canon of Missal, possibly by Johannes Bämler.
South Germany or Austria, c. 1440-1460.
In this solemn leaf from a Missal, we see Mary and St. John at the foot of the Cross placed in a natural landscape. In the background unfolds an abstract intricate terracotta background, ornamented with silver feather tendrils in spiral shapes. Due to the intertwining patterned background giving the appearance of embroidered cloth, the miniature takes on an almost emblematic quality, mesmerising the eye.
In the foreground, Mary has folded her hands in front of her, as if in prayer or resignation, while John raises his hands in shock. Yet, their faces do not resonate the feelings their gestures indicate, but remain serene and composed. Christ’s body is very pale, emaciated, and slight, his transparent loin cloth hardly concealing his nakedness. The composition is dominated by the colours blue, green, and a pale ochre. The painted frame with its bright red lining providing the strongest colour in the arrangement.
This miniature belongs to a missal from a large group, the so-called Augsburg-Salzburg' Missals. These were produced in the second half of the 15th century, by itinerant scribes and painters in Augsburg, who were also active in Southern Germany. The background design of this miniature, which recalls Bohemian paintings, can also be found in a Missal from the same group as a Missal for the diocese of Passau. The Missal from Passau is ascribed to the Augsburg artist Johannes Bämler, a renowned scribe and bookbinder with an extensive catalogue of work by his own hand or that of his workshop. He later branched out and made a name for himself as a printer of incunables.
