Artwork

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross

The Small Passion:  Christ Being Nailed to the Cross, by Albrecht Dürer, 1510
The Small Passion:  Christ Being Nailed to the Cross, by Albrecht Dürer, 1510

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1961.275
Credit line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ehrenfest in memory of William J. Collins

About this work

Overview

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross is a 1510 print by Albrecht Dürer, a renowned German Renaissance painter and printmaker. This work is part of a series depicting the Passion of Christ and is currently held in the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a pivotal moment in the Passion of Christ, where Jesus is nailed to the cross. The scene conveys intense suffering and sacrifice, emphasized by Jesus' anguished expression amidst the surrounding figures.

Technique & Style

While specific techniques used in this print are not detailed here, Dürer's work is known for its masterful use of chiaroscuro, a characteristic of his influential woodcuts and engravings that added depth and emotional intensity to his subjects.

History & Provenance

Created in 1510, the print reflects Dürer's established prominence in European art by his twenties, with connections to major Italian artists of the time. It is now part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Context

Part of The Small Passion series, this work sits within Dürer's broader exploration of religious themes, catering to the devotional needs of the Renaissance period while showcasing his artistic innovation.

Legacy

As part of Dürer's oeuvre, The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross contributes to his lasting impact on Renaissance art, particularly in the development and popularization of woodcut prints in Europe.

Christ Nailed to the Cross
Christ Nailed to the Cross, Albrecht Dürer

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Dürer

Artist

Albrecht Dürer

Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross?

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1510.

Where can I see The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross?

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross?

The Small Passion: Christ Being Nailed to the Cross is associated with Renaissance.