The Virgin and Saint John, from "The Apocalypse"

The Virgin and Saint John, from "The Apocalypse" by Albrecht Dürer is a powerful example of German Renaissance printmaking, executed as a woodcut in 1511. This sheet was part of the renowned 1511 Latin edition of Dürer’s Apocalypse series, a body of work first published in 1498. The intricate detail achieved in this woodcut demonstrates Dürer’s profound mastery of the medium, which revolutionized the quality of fine prints during the period and allowed his complex theological imagery to reach a wide audience.

The composition centers on the principal subjects: the figure of the Virgin Mary and Saint John the Baptist. While the series title suggests scenes of turmoil and the end of days, the depiction of the Madonna often retains the traditional grace associated with the Madonna and Child iconography, contrasting with the dramatic energy of other works in the series. The figures are rendered with deep emotional complexity, conveying both piety and concern. Dürer integrates natural details into the scene, including small birds, possibly acting as symbolic references to the Holy Spirit or the transitory nature of the soul.

As one of the most influential printmakers in history, Dürer’s woodcuts were instrumental in disseminating the religious and artistic thought of the Northern Renaissance throughout Europe. The enduring quality and widespread appeal of these prints ensured their lasting legacy. Today, this significant work resides in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, preserving a key element of the graphic arts tradition. Like many masterworks by Dürer, the image is often available for study and reference through public domain initiatives.