Print, book-illustration (BM 1895,1031.986)

Border with the four Evangelists (in the corners in circles) and twelve scenes for the life of Christ (in ovals). From top left corner, clockwise: St Mark with a winged lion, the annunciation, the resurrection of Christ, St Luke with bull, Christ on the cross, Christ before Pilate, Christ before Caiaphas, Christ on the Mount of Olives, St John with an eagle, the last supper, multiplication of the loaves and fish, St Matthew with an angel, the baptism of Christ, Christ among the doctors, flight into Egypt and the nativity; letterpress in black and red in centre of border and on verso; after Pieter van den Borcht; illustration to 'Missale Romanum' (Antwerp, 1574)

Woodcut from sixteen separate woodblocks

St. Mark was a disciple of St. Peter and is believed to have accompanied him on his missionary journeys. According to tradition, he was the first bishop of Alexandria and was martyred for his faith. He is remembered for his contribution to the spreading of the Christian message and is honored as one of the Four Evangelists.

The depiction of St. Mark with his symbol the lion is a popular subject in Christian art, St. Mark is often shown holding a book or scroll, representing the Gospel of Mark, with the lion at his side.

"Christ among the Doctors" is a subject in Christian art that depicts the youthful Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem, conversing with the teachers of the law. The event is described in the Gospel of Luke, where it is recorded that at the age of twelve, Jesus was left behind in Jerusalem after a pilgrimage to the city with his parents. He was later found in the Temple, sitting among the teachers and asking them questions, which amazed those who heard him. The scene is seen as a prefiguration of Jesus' later ministry and is interpreted as an early sign of his divine nature.