Artwork

Christ before Herod

Christ before Herod, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1509
Christ before Herod, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1509

Christ before Herod is an ink print by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1509 and is held in the collection of the British Museum.

About this work

Overview

Christ before Herod is a woodcut print created by Albrecht Dürer in 1509, featuring a pivotal religious scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Jesus Christ standing before Herod the Great, conveying a moment of religious and historical confrontation.

Technique & Style

Executed using the woodcut technique, the work showcases Dürer's mastery in achieving intricate details and textures, evident in the folds of Jesus' attire and the floor's patterns, thereby enhancing the image's depth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1509, the work is characteristic of Dürer's output during this period, though specific provenance details are not provided here.

Context

Part of Dürer's religious oeuvre, this woodcut reflects the artist's exploration of biblical themes through early printmaking techniques.

Legacy

As a Dürer woodcut, it contributes to the artist's significant influence on the development of printmaking and religious art in Europe.

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.

British Museum

Museum

British Museum

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