Sudarium displayed by two Angels

Sudarium displayed by two Angels is a celebrated engraving created by the Northern Renaissance master Albrecht Dürer in 1513. This mature work belongs to a period recognized for the artist’s unparalleled technical refinement and theological depth in printmaking. The devotional image centers on the Sudarium, or Veil of Veronica, which miraculously bears the imprint of the face of Christ. The sorrowful, dignified face is presented dynamically, supported and framed by two robust, emotive angels. The scene captures the intense suffering associated with the Passion, serving as a powerful visual aid for personal piety.

Executed using the demanding technique of line engraving, the work showcases Dürer’s absolute command over the burin. The contrast between the finely rendered luminosity of the faces and the deep shadows achieved through meticulous cross-hatching creates an almost sculptural depth, transforming the print into an object of monumental quality. Produced shortly after his renowned series of Master Engravings, this piece demonstrates Dürer’s dedication to circulating significant religious imagery across Europe through reproducible prints. The detailed rendering of the angelic figures and the central face underscores the artist's focus on realistic human anatomy and expressive gesture, common characteristics of the German Renaissance.

This historically significant piece of Northern European graphic arts is held in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The enduring quality of the composition has ensured its lasting influence on subsequent generations of artists. As one of the masterworks in the history of prints, the image is widely studied today, and high-resolution versions of the engraving are often found in the public domain, testifying to Dürer’s lasting legacy.