St. Christopher Facing to the Right

The masterful engraving, St. Christopher Facing to the Right, was executed by Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528, in 1521. This print exemplifies the refined technical skill Dürer brought to the printmaking medium during the Northern Renaissance. The composition, rendered in black ink on ivory laid paper, captures the moment the saint crosses the churning water, burdened by the weight of the Christ Child upon his shoulder. As one of the most significant artists of his time, Dürer used the precision allowed by engraving to render highly detailed textures and complex drapery, highlighting the monumental effort required of the saint.

The year 1521 marks a pivotal moment late in the German master’s career, shortly after his influential journey to the Netherlands. Prints like this one were crucial in establishing Dürer's international reputation throughout Europe. The subject of St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers, was highly popular in Germany, allowing Dürer to explore dramatic musculature and profound religious themes simultaneously. The artist utilizes controlled, parallel lines and intricate crosshatching, characteristic of his mature engraving style, to create deep shadows and define the powerful form of the saint as he struggles against the current.

This exceptional example of sixteenth-century German printmaking is housed in the esteemed collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. The detailed technique and powerful narrative showcase why Dürer remains one of the most recognized figures whose works, often accessible today as high-quality prints through public domain initiatives, continue to serve as a high standard for graphic arts.