De joodse man - Erhard Reuwich

A 1486 woodcut by Erhard Reuwich depicting a money-lender, originally published in the 'Sanctae Peregrinationes' travelogue.

This woodcut originates from the 'Sanctae Peregrinationes', a travelogue documenting a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, published in Mainz in 1486. Erhard Reuwich, a Dutch artist and printer, provided the illustrations for this volume, which is recognised for its early use of fold-out maps and detailed depictions of regional costumes and figures. The image depicts a money-lender seated at a bench, engaged in a transaction with a standing figure. The text above the image, written in Middle Dutch, translates to 'Here follows the figure of a Jew sitting at his usury bench'.

The composition is characteristic of late fifteenth-century book illustration. The figures are rendered with clear, bold outlines, typical of the woodcut medium, which allowed for mass reproduction in printed texts. The artist employs a simple, functional perspective to define the space, focusing on the interaction between the two individuals. The clothing details, including the hats and robes, reflect the contemporary European perception of dress during the period. The cross-hatching and line work provide texture to the garments and the wooden furniture, demonstrating the technical capabilities of the block cutters working under Reuwich's direction. As a historical document, this print offers insight into the visual culture and social attitudes of the late medieval period, specifically regarding the representation of commerce and social roles in printed media. The work remains a significant example of early book illustration, bridging the gap between manuscript illumination and the burgeoning industry of the printed book.