Artwork
Pilate Washing His Hands
Pilate Washing His Hands is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1513 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Albrecht Altdorfer's 'Pilate Washing His Hands' is a woodcut on laid paper, created around 1513. It exemplifies the artist's skill in integrating narrative scenes with natural settings.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a biblical scene where Pontius Pilate washes his hands, symbolizing his disavowal of responsibility. The scene is set amidst a gathering of armored men and robed figures outside a building with a steep roof.
Technique & Style
The work showcases Altdorfer's expertise in woodcut technique, characteristic of the Danube School. The black-and-white composition features intricate details, reflecting the artist's background in engraving and his association with the Nuremberg Little Masters.
Artist & collection
Artist
Albrecht Altdorfer (c. 1480 – 12 February 1538) was a German painter, engraver and architect of the Renaissance working in Regensburg. Along with Lucas Cranach the Elder and Wolf Huber he is regarded to be the main…
