Who painted The Betrothal of the Virgin?

The Betrothal of the Virgin was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1504.

Where can I see The Betrothal of the Virgin?

The Betrothal of the Virgin is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Betrothal of the Virgin?

The Betrothal of the Virgin is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Betrothal of the Virgin

Albrecht Dürer , 1504

The Betrothal of the Virgin is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1504 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1959.99.7
Credit line: Dudley P. Allen Fund

About this work

Overview

The Betrothal of the Virgin is a woodcut by Albrecht Dürer, part of a series depicting pivotal moments in the Virgin Mary’s life preceding her divine role.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures an intimate scene of Mary’s betrothal to Joseph, an older widower. An angel’s presence underscores the event’s religious significance within Mary’s life narrative.

Technique & Style

As a woodcut, the work exemplifies Dürer’s mastery of the medium, though specific stylistic details of this piece are not highlighted in available descriptions.

History & Provenance

Part of a set of three woodcuts (1959.99.5-7) focusing on Mary’s early life, including her birth and presentation at the temple. Provenance details are not provided.

Context

Created in a context where religious themes dominated art, Dürer’s series on Mary’s life reflects contemporary interest in her human, pre-divine experiences.

Legacy

This woodcut contributes to Dürer’s broader influence on religious art and the narrative of Mary’s life in Renaissance visual culture.