Artwork
Christ Taking Leave of His Mother

Christ Taking Leave of His Mother is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1504 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
This painting shows Mary kneeling, asking Jesus to stay.
She's sad because he's leaving for Jerusalem.
The scene is emotional, and Mary's feelings are clear.
The artist used simple lines to show Mary's sadness.
This makes the scene feel more personal and quiet.
You can learn more about this style by looking at the work of artist: Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528).
Overview
Christ Taking Leave of His Mother is a woodcut print depicting a poignant moment of separation between the Virgin Mary and Jesus as he departs for Jerusalem, leading to the events of his Passion.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures the emotional intensity of Mary's distress as she kneels, imploring Jesus to remain. Her sorrow is palpable, conveying the depth of maternal anguish at the impending loss of her son.
Technique & Style
Characterized by simple, expressive lines, the composition achieves a sense of intimate quietude, emphasizing the personal nature of the emotional exchange. This stylistic approach is reminiscent of the woodcut traditions associated with Albrecht Dürer.
History & Provenance
Part of a pair (1959.99.16-17), this woodcut is one of two prints illustrating overlapping narratives from the lives of Mary and Jesus, with specific provenance details currently limited to their catalog numbers.
Context
This work is part of a broader artistic tradition depicting scenes from Christian scripture, particularly focusing on the emotional moments leading up to the Passion of Christ, a common theme in Renaissance and Baroque religious art.
Legacy
While specific influence or direct descendants of this piece are not detailed, it contributes to the ongoing representation of biblical narratives in art, reflecting the enduring themes of maternal love and sacrifice in religious iconography.
Artist & collection
Artist
Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.
![Madonna and Child [obverse], by Albrecht Dürer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/albrecht-durer--madonna-and-child-obverse--d7b8ebf05d22ebe5-w320.webp)


![Lot and His Daughters [reverse], by Albrecht Dürer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/albrecht-durer--lot-and-his-daughters-reverse--b4ebf9b282faa17a-w320.webp)














