Lucas Cranach the Elder's Christ Liberating Souls from the Realm of the Dead depicts Christ's descent into hell, a common theme in Christian art known as the Harrowing of Hell. In this scene Christ is shown rescuing souls from damnation.
The symbolism in the painting highlights the contrast between salvation and damnation. Christ stands calmly as he rescues the souls and the souls he saves, including figures like Adam and Eve, represent humanity's redemption. On the left side, demons and chaotic imagery symbolize the darkness from which the souls are being freed. In the background, a peaceful cityscape and landscape hint at the earthly realm, suggesting Christ's triumph over sin and death.