Revelation of St. John

The Revelation of St. John by Albrecht Dürer, created as a powerful woodcut in 1511, stands as a cornerstone of German Renaissance printmaking. This work belongs to Dürer’s iconic Apocalypse series, originally published in 1498 and reissued later, which fundamentally transformed the standards for graphic narrative and technical execution in the medium of print. Dürer’s mastery of the woodcut technique allowed him to achieve unprecedented detail and dramatic contrast, turning what was traditionally considered a cheaper, popular medium into high art.

The subject, drawn from the final book of the New Testament, depicts intense apocalyptic visions, characterized by dynamic compositions and expressive figures. The scenes are rendered with meticulous line work, illustrating Dürer’s ability to imbue the often-austere medium of the woodcut with the complexity of engraving. This print exemplifies the heightened drama and spiritual intensity characteristic of Northern European art at the turn of the sixteenth century, deeply influencing subsequent generations of artists across Germany and the continent.

The technical precision evident in this work is remarkable, solidifying Dürer's reputation as the preeminent Northern Renaissance printmaker. This specific impression is housed within the distinguished collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Due to the historical nature and widespread influence of this masterpiece, high-resolution images of Dürer's seminal prints are frequently available through public domain archives worldwide, ensuring the accessibility of this vital piece of art history.