Artwork

Christ on the Mount of Olives

Christ on the Mount of Olives, by Albrecht Dürer, 1515
Christ on the Mount of Olives, by Albrecht Dürer, 1515

Christ on the Mount of Olives is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ on the Mount of Olives is a 1515 print by Albrecht Dürer, depicting a New Testament scene in the religious genre, housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows Christ kneeling in prayer on a rocky landscape, surrounded by a halo of light, conveying serenity and contemplation. Scattered objects, including a book and cloth, add symbolic depth to the biblical moment.

Technique & Style

Dürer employed chiaroscuro to create depth, emphasizing contrasts between light and dark. The work reflects his detailed approach and blend of German Renaissance techniques with Italian influences.

History & Provenance

Created in 1515 by Albrecht Dürer, a renowned German Renaissance painter, printmaker, and theorist, the work was likely influenced by his patronage under Emperor Maximilian I and exposure to Italian art.

Context

Part of Dürer's broader output of religious themes, this print exemplifies the Renaissance's religious art focus, balancing spiritual themes with emerging artistic innovations.

Legacy

As part of Dürer's oeuvre, Christ on the Mount of Olives contributes to his legacy as a master printmaker and artist, reflecting the enduring influence of Renaissance artistic and religious themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Dürer

Artist

Albrecht Dürer

Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.

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