Saint Christopher Facing Left (copy)

Saint Christopher Facing Left (copy) by Albrecht Dürer is a significant example of early German Renaissance printmaking. Executed as an engraving, the work belongs to the period spanning Dürer's prolific career (1485-1528), a time when the artist revolutionized the creation and distribution of devotional images across Europe.

The central subject is the legendary Saint Christopher, shown in profile as he struggles to bear the increasing weight of the Christ Child upon his shoulders while fording a turbulent river. This powerful scene illustrates the moment Christopher recognizes the child’s identity as the weight of the world itself. Dürer’s unparalleled technical skill elevated the engraving medium, turning simple line work into complex tonal studies that emphasize the physical struggle and spiritual revelation of the saint.

The designation "copy" indicates the high value and widespread appeal of Dürer’s original compositions; his designs were frequently replicated by other printmakers across the continent, attesting to their popularity and influence. The proliferation of high-quality prints allowed religious narratives, like the story depicted in Saint Christopher Facing Left (copy), to reach a much wider audience than traditional paintings could.

This specific impression is classified as a print and resides within the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Works of this era are crucial for understanding late medieval and early modern piety. As a historical artwork, its status ensures that this foundational example of graphic art is generally available within the public domain for research and scholarly study.