Christ before Herod, from "The Small Passion"
Original title: Christ before Herod, from "The Small Passion"
kurzbeschreibung
This woodcut by Albrecht Dürer, dated 1509, is part of his renowned series "The Small Passion." It depicts Christ standing before Herod, who is seated on a throne, surrounded by soldiers with lances. The scene captures a moment of interrogation and tension in the Passion narrative.
Description
Christ stands at the center, wearing a long-sleeved tunic, looking to the left as a soldier threatens him with a lance. Herod sits on a throne to the right, holding a lance, with another soldier beside him. On the left, two additional figures, likely soldiers, flank the scene. The background shows architectural elements with columns and a curtain, while a shield and a coin rest on the floor. The composition is symmetrical, with Christ as the focal point, rendered in monochrome with even lighting.
Context
Dürer created "The Small Passion" between 1509 and 1511, a series of 37 woodcuts that was widely circulated and contributed to his fame across Europe. This particular scene illustrates the biblical episode from Luke 23:6-12, where Pilate sends Jesus to Herod, who mocks him. The series was designed as a devotional aid, reflecting the late medieval and Renaissance interest in the Passion of Christ.
Impact
The woodcut conveys a sense of quiet dignity amid hostility, with Christ's calm posture contrasting with the aggressive stance of the soldiers. Dürer's meticulous attention to detail draws the viewer into the narrative, evoking both empathy and contemplation. The balanced composition reinforces the solemnity of the moment.
Technique
This is a woodcut, a relief printing technique where the image is carved into a wooden block, inked, and pressed onto paper. Dürer's skillful use of fine lines and cross-hatching creates texture and depth, demonstrating his mastery of the medium. The monochrome palette is typical of woodcuts, relying on line and contrast rather than color.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public domain (CC0)