The Death of the Virgin, from The Life of the Virgin is a significant woodcut executed by Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528, in 1510. This print belongs to his famous series, The Life of the Virgin, which chronicles the critical events of Mary’s life. Created using the demanding technique of woodcut in black on ivory laid paper, this work exemplifies Dürer's pivotal role in elevating printmaking from a popular craft to a refined art form during the German Renaissance. Dürer’s graphic output was revolutionary in its detail and emotional depth, transforming the way artists utilized the medium in Germany and across Europe.
The depiction focuses intensely on the moment of Mary's passing, traditionally known as the Dormition. The composition is tightly focused, showing the Virgin centrally placed on her deathbed in a domestic setting, surrounded by the twelve apostles. Saint Peter administers the last rites, while other apostles mourn or hold symbolic objects, contributing to the scene's profound solemnity and reverence. Dürer achieved an astonishing level of detail through his expert cross-hatching and modulation of line, creating deep shadows and convincing three-dimensionality seldom seen in earlier woodcuts. This piece demonstrates his masterful control over the medium, using light and shadow to heighten the dramatic impact of this sacred event.
Executed late in the artist’s prolific career, this 1510 woodcut is recognized as a hallmark of Dürer’s mature style. This classification as a print allowed for wider distribution, solidifying Dürer's international reputation during the early 16th century. Important historical works like this are meticulously preserved in major institutional collections, including the Art Institute of Chicago, where this impression currently resides. Thanks to the legacy established by Dürer, fine examples of his iconic prints are frequently studied and, when the terms allow, become available for academic research and viewing through public domain initiatives.
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