Albrecht Dürer’s “Crucifixion,” created in 1508, is an engraving that exemplifies the artistic achievements of the Northern Renaissance. As an artwork that falls under the religious genre, this piece was executed with a meticulous level of detail, typical of Dürer’s engravings. It is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts the biblical scene of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The central figure of Jesus is affixed to the cross, with a crown of thorns upon his head and INRI inscribed above. To the left, the Virgin Mary is supported by another figure, likely John the Apostle, as she appears to be fainting from grief. Another figure to the right, possibly Mary Magdalene, can be seen reaching out to touch Jesus’ feet. The scene is filled with emotions, as onlookers express despair and mourning. The landscape in the background, although somewhat subdued, shows a cityscape that might suggest the setting of Jerusalem. Below Jesus’ feet, Dürer has strategically placed his monogram and the date of creation, “1508.” The level of detail in the engravings of the figures’ garments, the wooden texture of the cross, and the sorrowful expressions on their faces articulates Dürer’s skill in conveying texture and emotion, traits that are reflective of his mastery in the medium of engraving.
