16th Century Virgil Solis Woodcut – The Woman & Seven-Headed Dragon of Revelation 12, c. 1560

An extraordinary original 16th-century German Renaissance woodcut depicting the Woman of the Apocalypse and the great dragon from Revelation 12, attributed to the celebrated Nuremberg artist and printmaker Virgil Solis (1514–1562).

The dramatic scene illustrates one of the most visually striking passages in the Book of Revelation. At the center stands the woman described as “clothed with the sun,” crowned with twelve stars, while the monstrous multi-headed dragon appears below. The surrounding imagery depicts the heavenly conflict described throughout Revelation 12.

Virgil Solis was one of the most prolific German illustrators of the sixteenth century. His extensive body of work included biblical and classical subjects, and his biblical woodcuts appeared in important printed works during the Reformation era.

This particular woodcut is especially compelling for its unusual subject matter. Rather than a conventional biblical narrative, it preserves a Renaissance artist’s visualization of one of Scripture’s most mysterious creatures—the great dragon of Revelation. More than four centuries later, the image provides a fascinating glimpse into how early modern Europeans pictured the strange and fantastic imagery of the Apocalypse.

This woodcut was acquired as part of a collection of nineteen 16th-century prints attributed to Virgil Solis.

Details:

Artist/Design: Virgil Solis (1514–1562), attributed
Subject: The Woman and the Dragon
Biblical Passage: Revelation 12
Date: 16th century, likely c. 1560s
Origin: Germany
Medium: Original woodcut
Approx. image size: 6.3 × 8.2 cm

Condition

The primary illustrated side is in excellent visual condition for its age, retaining a remarkably crisp, dark impression with strong detail.

Please note that this woodcut is currently adhered to two additional 16th-century woodcuts. The three were glued together by a previous owner at some point in their history. There is also old mounting/adhesive residue present on the reverse, apparently from an earlier mounting. Portions of the original printing on the reverse sides remain visible where exposed.

Please examine all photographs carefully for the exact condition and arrangement of the woodcuts.

A remarkable surviving piece of Renaissance biblical art, early printing, and apocalyptic imagery dating to the sixteenth century.