Artwork
The Fall and Redemption of Man: The Nativity
The Fall and Redemption of Man: The Nativity 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 Nativity is a print created by Albrecht Altdorfer around 1515. It is a representative work of the Danube School, a style characterized by vivid landscapes and expressive natural settings.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a crowded nighttime scene with three figures and a small building under a star-filled sky. The standing figure points to a bright star, likely referencing the Star of Bethlehem associated with the birth of Jesus.
Technique & Style
Altdorfer's work is marked by the use of vivid colors and expressive natural settings, characteristic of the Danube School. The print's dark, crowded scene and star-filled sky demonstrate this style.
History & Provenance
The print is now held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Altdorfer, a German Renaissance painter and architect, was active in Regensburg.
Artist & collection
Artist
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…
