Artwork

Christ in Limbo

Christ in Limbo, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1512
Christ in Limbo, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1512

Christ in Limbo is an ink print by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1512 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ in Limbo is an engraving on laid paper created by Albrecht Dürer in 1512.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts Jesus Christ rescuing Adam and Eve from their tombs, symbolizing the Harrowing of Hell. Christ stands on a broken door, holding a white flag, as angels observe from the shadows.

Technique & Style

Dürer's use of fine lines creates deep shadows, giving the engraving a three-dimensional appearance. The intricate hatching around figures like Adam adds to the overall sense of depth and texture.

History & Provenance

The engraving is held in the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

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.

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