Artwork
The Betrayal of Christ by Judas

The Betrayal of Christ by Judas is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1508 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1921.1163
- Credit line
- Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland
About this work
Overview
The Betrayal of Christ by Judas, created in 1508, is a religious print by Albrecht Dürer, a prominent German Renaissance artist. It showcases his skill in capturing dramatic scenes through innovative techniques.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a chaotic moment from Christian scripture, the print illustrates the betrayal of Christ. Figures in armor and robes dominate the scene, with Christ being restrained and a drummer on the ground conveying alarm.
Technique & Style
Dürer employed deep shadows and sharp contrasts, characteristic of chiaroscuro, to heighten the drama of the violence. This technique accentuates the figures against a dark, crowded backdrop filled with weaponry.
History & Provenance
Part of Dürer's diverse oeuvre, including altarpieces and engravings, The Betrayal of Christ by Judas is currently held in the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Context
As a favored artist of Emperor Maximilian I, Dürer's work reflects his European acclaim, bridging his early success with woodcuts and later patrons.
Artist & collection
Artist
Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.
![Madonna and Child [obverse], by Albrecht Dürer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/albrecht-durer--madonna-and-child-obverse--d7b8ebf05d22ebe5-w320.webp)


![Lot and His Daughters [reverse], by Albrecht Dürer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/albrecht-durer--lot-and-his-daughters-reverse--b4ebf9b282faa17a-w320.webp)














