The Crucifixion, from "The Passion"

The Crucifixion, from "The Passion," by Albrecht Dürer, is a profound example of Northern Renaissance graphic art, executed in 1511. Classified as a print, this masterful work is an engraving, a medium Dürer utilized to achieve unprecedented levels of minute detail and psychological depth on the copper plate. The print was created as part of Dürer's influential series dedicated to the events of Christ’s suffering and ultimate sacrifice.

The composition centers on the depiction of Christ upon the cross, the culmination of the Crucifixion narrative. The highly detailed print captures the intense emotional weight of the scene, populated by figures of grieving Men and Women at the foot of the cross. Dürer’s technical skill allowed him to manipulate the density of lines, creating strong contrasts and deep shadows that highlight the suffering of the central figure and the dramatic atmosphere of Golgotha.

Produced during a highly productive period in the artist’s career, this piece exemplifies Dürer’s rigorous approach to both human anatomy and religious iconography. As one of the most significant artists of the German Renaissance, his prints were widely distributed, influencing countless artists across Europe. This particular impression of the engraving is held within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its enduring importance means that high-quality prints and archival scans are frequently available through public domain resources, ensuring continued study of this crucial Renaissance masterwork.