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Artwork

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine

Albrecht Altdorfer , 1520

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine, by Albrecht Altdorfer, 1520
Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine, by Albrecht Altdorfer, 1520

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1520 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1936.665
Credit line
Dudley P. Allen Fund

About this work

Overview

This 1520 print by Albrecht Altdorfer depicts an altarpiece with the Virgin and Child surrounded by four saints. The design mimics a carved wooden altar, complete with ornate decorations and a crowning element.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, likely the Virgin Mary, holds a child and a globe, while the surrounding saints – Christopher, George, Barbara, and Catherine – each carry symbolic objects. The arrangement suggests a devotional or liturgical context.

Technique & Style

Altdorfer's engraving showcases his intricate technique, characteristic of the Nuremberg Little Masters. The figures are presented in shallow niches, evoking statues in a church, and the overall design reflects the Danube School's emphasis on vividly colored landscapes and detailed ornamentation.

Altarpiece with the Beautiful Virgin of Regensburg and Saints Christopher, Mary Magdalene, Florian, and Catherine Standing in Niches, with God the Father Above
Altarpiece with the Beautiful Virgin of Regensburg and Saints Christopher, Mary Magdalene, Florian, and Catherine Standing in Niches, with God the Father Above, Albrecht Altdorfer

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Altdorfer

Artist

Albrecht Altdorfer

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…

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine?

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine was painted by Albrecht Altdorfer in 1520.

Where can I see Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine?

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine?

Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine?

Museum-quality prints of Great Altar with the Virgin, in a border with SS. Christopher, George, Barbara, Catherine are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.