Artwork
The Arrest of Christ
The Arrest of Christ 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 'The Arrest of Christ' is a woodcut on laid paper, created around 1513. It is a representative work of the Danube School, a group of artists known for their expressive landscapes and detailed engravings.
Subject & Meaning
The woodcut depicts the moment of Jesus' arrest, with a group of armed men surrounding him. Jesus is shown with outstretched arms and a tilted head, conveying a sense of surrender or prayer, while the men around him display anger and aggression.
Technique & Style
The work features bold lines and dramatic shading, which heighten the emotional intensity of the scene and draw attention to the central figure. The use of these visual elements creates a sense of tension and conflict, underscoring the drama of the moment.
Context
Altdorfer was part of a circle of artists that included Lucas Cranach the Elder, and his work often featured biblical narratives set against vivid landscapes. 'The Arrest of Christ' is characteristic of this approach, combining a sacred subject with an expressive natural setting.
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…
