The Elevation of Saint Mary Magdalen

"The Elevation of Saint Mary Magdalen" is a powerful woodcut created by the German Renaissance master Albrecht Dürer, dating from the period 1485-1528. This graphic work is a key example of the shift toward sophisticated printmaking that Dürer spearheaded in Northern Europe. His mastery of the woodcut technique allowed him to imbue a relatively austere medium with the level of detail and complexity usually reserved for engraving or painting.

The subject depicts the apocryphal moment of the ultimate spiritual ascent of Saint Mary Magdalene, a popular devotional image during the late medieval and early modern periods. Following her penitential retreat in the desert, Dürer visualizes her being transported toward heaven. The composition focuses on the central figure, draped only in her long hair, being borne aloft by a grouping of supporting angels. The dramatic use of line and contrast is characteristic of Dürer's early career in prints. The detailed handling of light and shadow, particularly visible in the rendering of the figures and the dynamic motion of the ascent, demonstrates why Dürer is considered the pivotal figure in elevating woodcuts from simple illustrations to independent works of high art.

This specific impression of the work is preserved in the renowned collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, classified under the museum's extensive holdings of Renaissance prints. Because of its date and enduring historical importance, high-resolution images and reproductions of this print are often available via public domain resources, making the study of Dürer’s graphic innovations accessible worldwide. The image of the celestial journey in The Elevation of Saint Mary Magdalen remains a definitive representation of the deeply spiritual nature of the subject matter.