Who painted Christ Nailed to the Cross?

Christ Nailed to the Cross was painted by Albrecht Altdorfer in 1512.

Where can I see Christ Nailed to the Cross?

Christ Nailed to the Cross is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Christ Nailed to the Cross?

Christ Nailed to the Cross is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Christ Nailed to the Cross?

Museum-quality prints of Christ Nailed to the Cross are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Christ Nailed to the Cross

Albrecht Altdorfer , 1512

Christ Nailed to the Cross is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1512 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:by later hand, lower right in brown ink: Luca di Leida

About this work

Overview

Christ Nailed to the Cross is a drawing created by Albrecht Altdorfer around 1512. It is executed in pen and ink with wash and heightening on prepared paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the Crucifixion, a pivotal event in Christian iconography. The scene is crowded and chaotic, with Jesus on the cross surrounded by armored soldiers and a tumultuous crowd.

Technique & Style

Altdorfer's use of layered, scratchy lines and tonal contrasts creates a sense of urgency and movement. The warm, pinkish-brown paper tone adds depth to the composition, while the ink work produces a dramatic, shadow-like effect.

Context

As a member of the Danube School, Altdorfer often set his religious scenes against vivid landscapes, though this drawing focuses on the figures. The work reflects the artist's interest in expressive line and dynamic composition.

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Artist & collection

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…