Artwork
The Small Passion: Christ Washing St. Peter's Feet
The Small Passion: Christ Washing St. Peter's Feet is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Albrecht Dürer created Christ Washing St. Peter's Feet around 1510 as part of his Small Passion series, a collection of prints depicting the Passion of Christ.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates a pivotal biblical scene where Christ washes the feet of St. Peter, symbolizing humility and spiritual cleansing. The composition emphasizes the intimate moment between Christ and St. Peter amidst a gathered group of onlookers.
Technique & Style
Dürer employed chiaroscuro, a technique utilizing strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a dramatic atmosphere. Deep shadows and highlights accentuate the emotional depth of the scene, drawing attention to the act of foot washing.
History & Provenance
As a renowned printmaker of the German Renaissance, Dürer was celebrated for his technical skill and innovative use of woodcuts and engravings, gaining widespread recognition across Europe.
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)
