Engraved copies of The Little Passion

Engraved copies of The Little Passion by Albrecht Dürer represents a critical segment of Renaissance printmaking, characterized by the rigorous use of the engraving medium. The wide chronological range (1485-1699) indicates that these works are reproductions or closely inspired prints based on Dürer's highly influential original woodcut and copperplate series detailing the Passion of Christ. The classification as a print highlights the accessibility of the artwork, which was instrumental in disseminating profound religious narratives throughout Europe.

Dürer revolutionized the graphic arts, treating the copperplate engraving with the precision and detail previously reserved only for painting. His original Kleine Passion was pivotal in elevating printmaking as a fine art form, enabling the imagery to reach a broader audience than traditional oil paintings.

The subject matter focuses squarely on the final, tragic events of Jesus’s life, rendered through expressive and emotionally charged compositions. Dürer’s narratives often include poignant supporting figures, frequently depicting the grief and devotion of women, such as Mary Magdalene and the Virgin Mary, at key moments of suffering and resurrection. The artistic power of the original series ensured its constant reproduction and study well into the subsequent centuries.

The continued interest in this series led to numerous copies and derived prints being created long after the German Renaissance. This example of high-quality prints, which reflects the enduring legacy of Dürer, is held in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its status today contributes to the wealth of historical artwork available in the public domain for study and appreciation.