The Betrothal of the Virgin, from "The Life of the Virgin" (copy)

The Betrothal of the Virgin, from "The Life of the Virgin" (copy) by Albrecht Dürer is an important example of Northern Renaissance printmaking, dating between 1505 and 1511. While this particular impression is identified as a later copy, it faithfully reproduces one of the key compositions from Dürer's celebrated woodcut series, which chronicled the life of the Virgin Mary. The original series proved exceptionally popular throughout Europe, demonstrating the power of the print medium to widely disseminate complex religious narratives.

The engraving vividly depicts the scene of the Virgin Mary’s marriage to Joseph, a central theological event. The precise lines and intricate crosshatching are characteristic of Dürer's masterful handling of the burin, illustrating the depth and textural variety achievable in early 16th-century prints. The composition centers on the moment of exchange, surrounded by numerous figures. An assembly of Men and Women observe the rite, emphasizing the public and communal significance of the event, rendered within a classically influenced architectural setting.

This type of graphic work set a new standard for narrative clarity and technical execution in printmaking. Dürer’s influence was immense, leading many artists to produce authorized and unauthorized copies of his popular designs, such as this piece. This composition resides within the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to the historical age and cultural importance of Dürer’s graphic output, high-resolution images of prints from the The Life of the Virgin series are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring continued access for scholarly study and appreciation.