Who painted The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche?

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche was painted by Daniel Hopfer in 1524.

Where can I see The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche?

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche?

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche?

Museum-quality prints of The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche

Daniel Hopfer , 1524

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Daniel Hopfer. It dates from 1524 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in plate: DH; by later hand, in banner at upper right in brown ink: 1530; by later hand, lower right in graphite: BM 13; by later hand, center verso in graphite: B 13 I vol.... No / (not deciphered) / 15m. / ex Bibliotheque / (not deciphered); by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: N. 50 / 350
Markings: Marked:illegible blindstamp

About this work

Overview

The Crucified Christ in a Decorated Niche is an etching on laid paper, created by German artist Daniel Hopfer around 1524. This religious print showcases Hopfer's pioneering work in etching techniques.

Subject & Meaning

At the center of an ornate niche, the crucified Christ is depicted, surrounded by intricate carvings, statues, and various figures and creatures, evoking depth and religious reverence.

Technique & Style

Executed as an iron etching, this piece highlights Hopfer's distinctive use of iron plates, differing from the later prevalent copper etchings, and demonstrating his innovative approach to the medium.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1524, this etching exemplifies Hopfer's contributions to the development of etching as a viable commercial printmaking method, paving the way for the print publishing industry.

Context

Within the early 16th-century European artistic landscape, Hopfer's work bridged late medieval traditions with emerging Renaissance printmaking techniques, influencing the broader adoption of etching.

Legacy

Through innovations like those seen in The Crucified Christ, Hopfer played a pivotal role in establishing etching as a central printmaking technique, impacting the future of print production and publishing.

Triumphal Altar with Stages in the Life of Christ, Daniel Hopfer

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Artist & collection

Artist

Daniel Hopfer

Daniel Hopfer (c. 1470 – 1536) was a German artist who is widely believed to have been the first to use etching in printmaking, at the end of the 15th century. He also worked in woodcut. Although his etchings were…