Isenheim Altarpiece after Matthias Grünewald

Grünewald, one of the most important artists of the early 16th century Renaissance in the North, painted this crucifixion with a startling power of expression. The central panel of the altarpiece is a powerful and compelling work: John the Baptist points to the sore infested body of Christ saying, "He must increase, but I must decrease." At the foot of the cross, John holds Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene kneels before the cross. The predella panel portrays Christ being laid to rest in a sarcophagus.

• Mixed media drawing with 22-carat gold leaf
• 21" x 16"