Artwork

Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap

Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap, by Albrecht Dürer, mixed, 1505
Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap, by Albrecht Dürer, mixed, 1505

Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap is a mixed painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1505 and is held in the collection of the Städel Museum.

About this work

Overview

Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap is a religious painting from 1505, created by Albrecht Dürer, a pivotal figure in the German Renaissance, known for his profound influence on European art. Executed in mixed technique, the work is part of the Northern Renaissance corpus and is currently housed in the Städel Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates the biblical figure of Job in a state of suffering, depicted seated on a brown, earthy surface, attended by a woman in a pink dress, who pours water from a bucket, possibly symbolizing comfort or purification amidst Job's trials. Job is portrayed with a beard and bald head, wearing a simple white loincloth.

Technique & Style

Dürer employed chiaroscuro to achieve a pronounced sense of depth and volume, guiding the viewer's focus towards the foreground figures. This contrasts with the serene background of green trees set against a blue, clouded sky.

History & Provenance

Created in 1505, the artwork is part of the Städel Museum's collection. Notably, the title 'Jabach Altar' suggests a potential original commission or association, though specific historical details on its creation context are not provided here.

Context

As a Northern Renaissance piece, it reflects the period's emphasis on detailed realism and religious themes. Dürer's mixed technique and use of chiaroscuro were innovative for its time, showcasing his versatility beyond engraving.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of 'Jabach Altar: Job on the Dungheap' are not outlined, as a work by Dürer, it contributes to the broader impact of his artistry on subsequent European artistic movements.

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.

Städel Museum

Museum

Städel Museum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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