The Nativity (copy)

The Nativity (copy) is a striking historical print attributed to the workshop or circle of the renowned German Renaissance master, Albrecht Dürer. Executed in the demanding technique of the woodcut, this work dates from the wide period spanning the late 15th through the 16th century (1485-1600). The expansive date range reflects its status as a widely reproduced copy derived from one of Dürer’s influential graphic compositions, demonstrating the rapid dissemination and popularity of his designs across Europe shortly after their creation.

The subject focuses intensely on the central Christian narrative of the Nativity, depicting the moment of Christ’s birth and the adoration paid by the figures surrounding the infant Savior, notably the Virgin Mary. Dürer’s artistic legacy profoundly elevated the standing of prints, transforming the graphic arts into a major vehicle for artistic expression. Even in secondary prints like this one, the characteristic complexity of Dürer’s spatial arrangement and his mastery of fine line work are still evident. The technical difficulty inherent in replicating the detailed interplay of light and shadow, which emphasizes the spiritual illumination surrounding Christ, showcases the efforts of the copyist attempting to honor the German master's intricate design.

This specific woodcut is maintained in the comprehensive collection of prints and drawings at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because this composition belongs to an earlier period and replicates a foundational Renaissance artwork, prints based on this design are often considered part of the public domain, allowing wide access for scholarly study and public appreciation.