Resurrection, from "The Small Woodcut Passion"

Resurrection, from "The Small Woodcut Passion" by Albrecht Dürer, created around 1509-1510, is a masterful example of Northern Renaissance printmaking. This specific impression is notable for being a hand-colored woodcut, demonstrating the versatility and market appeal of Dürer's prints in early sixteenth-century Germany. The work belongs to a smaller, more intimate devotional series that Dürer executed following his return from Italy, reflecting his dedication to popularizing religious narratives through widely accessible prints.

The composition centers on the triumphant figure of Jesus, who rises dynamically from the tomb, holding the banner of victory. Below him, the figures of the sleeping and startled men-at-arms provide dramatic contrast to the divine ascension. Dürer’s skill as a draftsman is evident in the detailed rendering of the soldiers' armor and the intense expressions of the men reacting to the miracle. The surrounding landscape, anchored by the inclusion of various trees, frames the scene and emphasizes the sense of a new dawn. While the woodcut medium often necessitates bold, simplified lines, Dürer achieved remarkable nuance and dramatic intensity characteristic of his mature style.

As a highly sought-after printmaker, Dürer revolutionized the distribution of imagery across Europe. This particular piece is part of the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a key reference for the study of German Renaissance prints. Given the age and historical significance of this woodcut, the image is now widely accessible through public domain digital collections, ensuring its enduring legacy for art historians and enthusiasts worldwide.