Artwork
Saint Christopher Seated by a River Bank
Saint Christopher Seated by a River Bank is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Albrecht Altdorfer's Saint Christopher Seated by a River Bank is a woodcut on laid paper, created around 1516. It exemplifies the artist's integration of religious themes with detailed landscapes.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Saint Christopher kneeling by a river, carrying the Christ child. The scene is populated with various animals and lush vegetation, blending the devotional subject with a vibrant natural setting.
Technique & Style
The woodcut showcases Altdorfer's use of sharp lines to render intricate details, such as leaves, fish scales, and water ripples. This technique is characteristic of his work and reflects his experience with engraving.
Context
As a member of the Danube School, Altdorfer was known for framing scenes within expressive landscapes. This work demonstrates his contribution to the development of landscape as an independent subject in art.
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…
