Saint Christopher

Saint Christopher by Albrecht Dürer, dating to 1511, is a masterful example of Northern Renaissance woodcut artistry. Executed during the period 1501 to 1550, this compelling print demonstrates Dürer’s unparalleled ability to integrate minute detail and dramatic tension into the challenging medium of the woodcut. The German master employed intricate line work and carefully calculated cross-hatching to define volume and shadow, achieving a sculptural realism previously rare in woodblock prints.

The subject depicts the legendary giant, Saint Christopher, struggling to carry the Christ Child across a turbulent river. Christopher, whose name means “Christ-bearer,” leans heavily on his staff while navigating the dangerous currents, symbolizing the weight of the world's sins. The infant Jesus, seated upon his shoulders, raises his hand in benediction. This portrayal of the saint was exceptionally popular in 16th-century German culture, often revered as a protective image against sudden, unexpected death. Dürer’s skillful composition uses the turbulent water and dense background elements to emphasize the perilous nature of the journey and the saint’s immense physical and spiritual effort.

This exceptional example of Dürer’s extensive graphic output is held within the esteemed collection of the National Gallery of Art. Along with his paintings and copperplate engravings, Dürer’s production of woodcuts secured his lasting international reputation and cemented the status of prints as a viable artistic medium. Today, the work continues to be highly valued for its technical brilliance and narrative strength. As a significant masterwork from the early 16th century, the print Saint Christopher is frequently available in the public domain for scholarly research and study.