"Kruisafneming" (Descent from the Cross) 

Original Wood Engraving Print by Victor Delhez

Rare "épreuve d'artiste" (artist's proof), possibly a unique printing, from Delhez's Gospel Series (also known as the Evangelios or Biblical series).

Measures 19-1/2 x 15 inches (sheet); very good condition with small area of old dealer marking on rear.

The Gospel Series:

Delhez began this monumental series in 1934 while living in the remote Cocaraya Valley of Bolivia. The project consists of over 100 individual wood engravings illustrating scenes from the four Gospels. Each piece was meticulously hand-engraved on the end-grain of wood blocks. This "white line" technique allowed Delhez to achieve the extraordinary, sculptural detail and dramatic lighting seen in the figures' robes and the texture of the cross.

Delhez typically printed very small editions, often only eight impressions per block, making original signed prints quite rare. 

While the entire series spanned several years, this specific engraving of the Descent from the Cross (referenced by the Luke 23:53 citation) was created during his peak productive years in Bolivia, likely between 1934 and 1937. The integration of the scripture citation—LUK XXIII 53—directly into the block's design is a hallmark of this series, ensuring the viewer connects the visual drama directly to the biblical text.

Considered a preeminent 20th-century graphic artist, Delhez's work is held in major institutions worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian. Signed original prints by Delhez are collectible, typically appearing at auction with estimates ranging from roughly $300 to $1,900, depending on the series and rarity.

Victor Delhez (Belgian, 1902-1985)

Victor Delhez is best known for his woodcut engravings, particularly his celebrated Gospel series. He was born in Antwerp, Belgium, March 16, 1902 but moved to Argentina, where he worked as a draughtsman, architect and contractor in Buenos Aires from 1926–1933. He then moved to Bolivia, before moving back to Argentina in 1940. He settled in Chacras de Coria and took a post as professor at the Academy of Fine Arts, National University of Cuyo.

While in Bolivia, Delhez produced a set of forty illustrations for the Gospels, and twenty-one for Lord Dunsany's "A Dreamer's Tales", while in correspondence with the author. The Gospel woodcuts are notable for using South American settings for the illustrations.

Delhez's works are found in numerous museums, including more than 350 prints in the Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels, about 275 prints at the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota in Bradenton, Florida, about 100 prints held by the Museum Plantin-Moretus in Antwerp, Belgium as well as works at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, at the Baltimore Museum of Art.