Artwork

Christ Nailed to the Cross

Christ Nailed to the Cross, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1510
Christ Nailed to the Cross, by Albrecht Dürer, ink, 1510

Christ Nailed to the Cross is an ink print by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Albrecht Dürer’s woodcut titled *Christ Nailed to the Cross*, executed around 1510, presents a stark, monochrome portrayal of the crucifixion. Rendered in black ink on laid paper, the image captures the moment of Jesus on the cross, emphasizing the physical suffering through stark lines and deep shadows.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on the crucified Christ, whose arms are outstretched on the crossbeam. Blood is shown dripping from his hands, feet, and side, underscoring the intensity of his sacrifice. The darkened sky behind him contributes to a somber, contemplative atmosphere.

Technique & Style

As a woodcut, Dürer incised the design into a wooden block, then transferred ink onto paper by pressing. The resulting lines are crisp and incised, creating a sense of depth despite the binary black‑and‑white palette. The sharp contrasts and fine hatching evoke a three‑dimensional space within the flat medium.

History & Provenance

Created in the early sixteenth century, the print belongs to Dürer’s series of religious works that circulated widely through printmaking. Its production on laid paper reflects the common practice of the period, allowing the image to reach a broader audience beyond original paintings.

Context

The work aligns with Dürer’s broader engagement with Christian iconography, echoing themes found in his other prints such as the *Passion* series. By employing the reproducible woodcut technique, Dürer contributed to the dissemination of devotional imagery during the Reformation era.

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: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.