De Heilige Christoffel draagt het Christuskind by Albrecht Dürer, created in 1511, is a masterful example of German Renaissance graphic arts. Classified as a print on paper, this work was produced during a particularly fertile and influential period in Dürer’s career when he was actively redefining the artistic status and technical capabilities of printmaking. The subject illustrates the traditional legend of Saint Christopher, often depicted as a giant, laboring to carry the weight of the disguised Christ Child across a turbulent river.
Dürer’s execution demonstrates his technical genius, utilizing precise linear articulation and strong tonal contrasts typical of his graphic output. He conveys the immense struggle of the saint, who discovers that the child's weight grows heavier with every step, symbolizing the burden of the world he now carries. The complexity of the saint's musculature and the detailed rendering of the surrounding landscape underscore the artist’s commitment to naturalism and anatomical study, bringing a new sophistication to the medium.
This iconic German work is esteemed for its role in advancing the potential of prints as standalone artworks rather than mere copies. As a significant piece within the Rijksmuseum collection, De Heilige Christoffel draagt het Christuskind is studied as a cornerstone of early sixteenth-century European art. Due to its age and cultural importance, high-resolution images of this print are frequently accessible through public domain resources, allowing students and enthusiasts worldwide to appreciate the enduring skill of Dürer.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.