The Nativity, from "The Small Passion"

The Nativity, from "The Small Passion," by Albrecht Dürer, created in 1510, is a masterful example of the Northern Renaissance woodcut medium. This print belongs to Dürer’s influential series, The Small Passion, which comprised thirty-six block prints detailing the life and suffering of Christ. Dürer’s dedication to popularizing religious narratives through widely reproducible prints made this series a cornerstone of his prolific artistic output and secured his legacy as the greatest Northern European printmaker.

The intimate scene captures the traditional Nativity event. The composition centers on the Virgin Mary, shown kneeling in adoration beside the infant Christ, who illuminates the surrounding figures. Surrounding the holy family are various figures of men, likely shepherds or Joseph, observing the miraculous moment with reverence. Above, delicate Angels hover, announcing the divine birth. Dürer’s intricate handling of line and dramatic chiaroscuro is characteristic of German Renaissance prints, imbuing the work with profound spirituality and technical precision, even within the constraints of the small format referenced in the series title.

Dürer’s genius in utilizing the woodcut medium elevated the craft into a high art form throughout Europe. This historic print, essential for understanding the dissemination of religious art during the early sixteenth century, resides in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to its age and cultural significance, high-quality images of this remarkable woodcut are widely considered to be in the public domain.