Engraved copies of The Little Passion

Engraved copies of The Little Passion by Albrecht Dürer is a significant collection of prints dating from the period 1485-1699, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This series, executed primarily in the exacting medium of engraving, showcases the profound narrative power that Dürer brought to religious subject matter during the early Renaissance. While the precise date range suggests the inclusion of both original plates and later impressions or copies, the entire series reflects the influence and enduring appeal of the master’s work.

The Little Passion cycle visually recounts the final suffering and resurrection of Jesus, a core theme in Christian art. The individual scenes feature interactions between human figures—specifically Men—and divine beings, including depictions of Angels accompanying Christ through his ordeal. Dürer’s unparalleled skill in handling the burin allowed him to achieve fine detail and rich tonality, transforming the relatively new technology of prints into a high art form. This accessible medium ensured the widespread distribution and lasting fame of Dürer’s compositions across Europe.

These works serve as crucial examples of Northern Renaissance printmaking. The Met’s substantial holding allows scholars and the public to study the evolution of the technique and the profound impact of Dürer’s designs on subsequent generations of artists. As influential works, these Engraved copies of The Little Passion are frequently referenced in the study of art history and are recognized today for their historic importance and artistic quality within the museum's distinguished collection.