The Resurrection, from "The Little Passion"

The Resurrection, from "The Little Passion," by Albrecht Dürer, dating to 1510, is a masterful example of the woodcut medium. This print forms part of the influential series known as The Little Passion, which comprised thirty-six woodcuts depicting scenes from Christ’s suffering and ultimate triumph. Executed during the peak of the German Renaissance, Dürer utilized the inherent contrast of the woodcut technique to achieve dramatic chiaroscuro and intense detail, demonstrating his profound skill in printmaking.

The composition centers on the powerful figure of Jesus ascending from the sarcophagus, bathed in radiant light. Below him, the scene is chaotic, populated by Roman soldiers-the Men tasked with guarding the tomb. These figures are thrown into varying states of shock and deep sleep. Dürer pays close attention to the details of the military equipment, including shields and various Weapons scattered across the ground, reinforcing the human drama juxtaposed against the divine miracle. This particular work showcases the artist’s mature style, characterized by dense hatching and kinetic energy in the human forms. The contrast between the resurrected Christ's calm, idealized form and the heavy, earthly bodies of the guards provides spiritual and visual tension.

This series significantly impacted the dissemination of religious imagery across Europe. Because prints could be reproduced cheaply and widely, Dürer ensured that his interpretations of key biblical events reached a vast audience, cementing his legacy as a central figure in early modern art. This acclaimed piece, like many of the German master's graphic works, is today held in esteemed collections, including that of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The enduring popularity of Dürer’s prints means high-resolution images of this powerful woodcut are frequently available through public domain sources, allowing researchers and enthusiasts globally to study his meticulous line work.