The Betrayal of Christ, from "The Small Passion"

The Betrayal of Christ, from "The Small Passion" by Albrecht Dürer, is a powerful early 16th-century woodcut created around 1509. This piece belongs to the monumental series, The Small Passion, which encapsulates the major events of Christ’s suffering and redemption in a format designed for accessibility and wide distribution. Dürer, a towering figure of the German Renaissance, employed the demanding woodcut technique to achieve intricate detail and dramatic contrast, transforming what was traditionally a stark medium into a vehicle for profound emotional expression.

The scene depicts the chaotic confrontation in the Garden of Gethsemane. The composition is tightly packed, maximizing the tension as a multitude of antagonistic men and Roman soldiers press in from all sides. The figure of Christ stands central, displaying serene resignation amidst the violence. Dürer masterfully uses line and shade to render the aggression of the crowd, highlighting the numerous swords and spears raised in the air. The contrast between the figure of Christ and the aggressive, dynamic movements of the surrounding men emphasizes the spiritual gravity of the event.

As a leading example of Renaissance prints, this work demonstrates Dürer’s foundational role in elevating the graphic arts to the level of painting. The relatively small scale of the piece allowed for rapid reproduction and wide dissemination across Europe, shaping the public visualization of Biblical narratives during the period. This fine impression is preserved in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Because of its age and profound cultural significance, the design and images from this influential Dürer woodcut are often found within the public domain, making the genius of this master accessible globally.