Who painted Der Tod der Maria?

Der Tod der Maria was painted by Unknown in 1500.

Where can I see Der Tod der Maria?

Der Tod der Maria is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Der Tod der Maria?

Der Tod der Maria is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Der Tod der Maria

Unknown , 1500

Der Tod der Maria is a print by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1923.250
Credit line: Charles W. Harkness Endowment Fund

About this work

Overview

Der Tod der Maria is a monochrome print that depicts a densely populated interior scene. At its centre lies a woman on a bed, her head encircled by a halo, indicating sanctity. Surrounding her are numerous figures, some in close contact, others observing from the periphery, creating a sense of collective attention to the moment of death.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is identified as the Virgin Mary, suggested by the halo and the context of her dying posture. The surrounding participants, holding objects such as a bowl or a staff, convey roles of caretakers, mourners, or religious witnesses, emphasizing the solemnity of the transition from life to death within a Christian framework.

Technique & Style

Executed as a black‑and‑white print, the work relies on line work and tonal contrast to model forms and convey emotion. The artist compresses a large number of figures into a confined space, using tight composition and stark chiaroscuro to heighten the immediacy of the scene.

History & Provenance

The piece is titled Der Tod der Maria and is known only as a print; no further details about its date, creator, or ownership history are provided in the source material.

Context

The composition reflects Renaissance interests in narrative density and the dramatization of sacred events. By placing a holy figure amid a crowd of human witnesses, the work aligns with contemporary approaches that blend devotional subject matter with heightened emotional realism.