Artwork
Resurrection of Christ
Resurrection of Christ is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
Albrecht Altdorfer’s *Resurrection of Christ* (1518) is an oil painting that portrays the biblical moment of Jesus rising from the tomb. The composition balances a luminous central figure with a somber, rocky landscape, creating a scene that is both dramatic and serene. The work is part of the Northern Renaissance tradition and is currently housed in Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas depicts the resurrected Christ emerging wrapped in a white shroud, his radiant form illuminating the surrounding darkness. Nearby, Roman soldiers lie asleep on the ground and on stone tables, while a few angels observe the event. The contrast between the divine light and the sleeping guards underscores themes of triumph over death and the revelation of divine power.
Technique & Style
Altdorfer employs a strong chiaroscuro effect, using the bright glow of the risen figure to model the surrounding rocks and foliage. The landscape, rendered in vivid, naturalistic tones, reflects the Danube School’s preference for integrating detailed scenery with religious narrative. Fine brushwork and careful handling of light give the painting a sense of depth and atmospheric tension.
History & Provenance
Created in Regensburg, where Altdorfer was active as both painter and architect, the work exemplifies his early interest in treating landscape as an autonomous element. After remaining in private collections for centuries, the painting entered the holdings of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it has been displayed as part of the museum’s Northern Renaissance holdings.
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…
