Today, we discussed the Isenheim Altarpiece. What interested me about the piece was the representation of current affairs. The altarpiece was built in 1513, during a time of great plague. Christ, therefore, is depicted with gross, disease-like skin. His foot is also riddled with ergotism, a common disease in the 16th century. The theme of realism in Northern Art, and its relation to modern affairs continue to be prominent.