Artwork
The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple
The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1502 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This print depicts a pivotal scene from the life of the Virgin Mary: her presentation at the temple.
About this work
The artist included everyday details, like a woman resting in the background, which makes the scene feel more real.
The painting shows a scene of the Virgin Mary as a child being presented at the temple.
It's a detailed scene with many figures.
The artist included everyday details, like a woman resting in the background, which makes the scene feel more real.
The painting is part of a series of works about Mary's life.
This series shows important events from her childhood.
You can learn more about this style by looking at the work of artist: Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528)
Overview
This print depicts a pivotal scene from the life of the Virgin Mary: her presentation at the temple. It is part of a series of works by Albrecht Dürer exploring significant events from Mary's early life.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows Mary as a child ascending the temple stairs, surrounded by numerous figures. The inclusion of everyday details, such as a resting woman in the background, lends a sense of realism to the religious narrative.
Technique & Style
Dürer's work is characterized by its detailed rendering of scenes and incorporation of mundane elements, making the sacred story more relatable.
Context
This print is one of a series of three woodcuts by Dürer focusing on key events in Mary's youth before her sacred calling.
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)
