Life of the Virgin: Christ Among the Doctors

1504

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

Life of the Virgin: Christ Among the Doctors is a 1504 by Albrecht Dürer, a Renaissance work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Albrecht Dürer
When & what style?: 1504 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This print shows a crowded scene inside a church-like space. In the center, a man in a robe holds a book while others gather around him. Some people are standing, some kneeling, and one child sits on a bench, looking up. The background has tall pillars, an arched ceiling, and a raised platform with more figures. Notice how the artist uses light and shadow to make the figures pop against the dark walls. The details in the clothing and faces feel very real. Next, look up Renaissance to see how this style changed art.