Artwork

The Fall and Redemption of Man: The Lamentation beneath the Cross

The Fall and Redemption of Man:  The Lamentation beneath the Cross, by Albrecht Altdorfer, 1515
The Fall and Redemption of Man:  The Lamentation beneath the Cross, by Albrecht Altdorfer, 1515

The Fall and Redemption of Man: The Lamentation beneath the Cross is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Fall and Redemption of Man: The Lamentation beneath the Cross is a print created by Albrecht Altdorfer around 1515. Altdorfer was a German artist active in Regensburg, known for his work as a painter, engraver, and architect.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man kneeling beside a sleeping child under a tree, conveying a sense of care and protection through their contrasting poses. The scene is set against a backdrop of a building and clouds, suggesting a narrative that is both quiet and meaningful.

Technique & Style

The work is a black-and-white print characterized by rough lines and textures, reflecting Altdorfer's skill as an engraver. As a leading figure of the Danube School, he was known for integrating figures into vivid landscapes, and his engravings were influenced by the detailed style of the Nuremberg Little Masters.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Altdorfer

Artist

Albrecht Altdorfer

Albrecht Altdorfer (c. 1480 – 12 February 1538) was a German painter, engraver and architect of the Renaissance working in Regensburg. Along with Lucas Cranach the Elder and Wolf Huber he is regarded to be the main…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.