Engraved copies of The Little Passion

The Engraved copies of The Little Passion by Albrecht Dürer represents one of the most significant devotional print series in the history of art. Although Dürer originally conceived and executed the series around 1508-1512, this specific collection spans production dates from 1485 to 1699, underscoring the enduring popularity and wide dissemination of the master’s designs through subsequent copies and editions. Created using the demanding technique of line engraving on copper plates, the subtle yet powerful compositions demonstrate Dürer's revolutionary approach to Northern Renaissance graphic arts.

The complete series focuses intently on the narrative of Christ’s suffering, chronicling events from the creation of the world through the Passion and Resurrection. Each individual print, typically characterized by small scale and dense detailing, required immense technical skill to achieve the precise tonal shifts necessary to convey emotion and sculptural form. Dürer’s unparalleled ability to render complex theological scenes concerning the life of Christ within such constrained formats made these prints essential items for private piety across Europe. This particular collection, featuring various historical copies, provides a comprehensive study of how the artist approached the depiction of human drama alongside divine suffering.

The presence of copies dating well beyond Dürer's lifetime highlights the robust market for reproducing highly successful Renaissance imagery. While the originals hold immense scholarly value, the availability of these high-quality copies ensured that the powerful vision of the artist reached a vast audience, contributing to the work's status today as widely available art, often circulating in the public domain. This collection of engravings is preserved within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serving as a vital resource for understanding the spread of Northern Renaissance graphic artistry and the long-term influence of Dürer.