Saint Veronica between Saints Peter and Paul, from "The Small Passion"
Original title: Saint Veronica between Saints Peter and Paul, from "The Small Passion"
kurzbeschreibung
This woodcut by Albrecht Dürer, dating from 1510, is part of the series "The Small Passion." It depicts Saint Veronica holding the veil with the image of Christ, flanked by Saints Peter and Paul. The composition is symmetrical, with the three figures arranged in a row within a church-like setting.
Description
In the center, Saint Veronica holds a cloth bearing the imprint of Christ's face, while Peter on the left holds a key and Paul on the right holds a sword. The figures are set against a simple architectural backdrop that suggests a sacred space. The woodcut uses fine lines and cross-hatching to model the drapery and facial features, creating a sense of depth and texture. The composition is balanced and orderly, with the figures evenly spaced and facing the viewer.
Context
Dürer created "The Small Passion" between 1509 and 1511, a series of 37 woodcuts illustrating the Passion of Christ. This particular scene, though not a standard Passion episode, emphasizes the veneration of relics and the role of saints. The series was highly popular and contributed to Dürer's reputation as a master printmaker. The woodcuts were intended for a broad audience, serving both devotional and artistic purposes.
Impact
The stark black-and-white contrast and precise linework give the scene a solemn, meditative quality. The symmetrical arrangement and calm expressions of the saints convey a sense of stability and reverence. The viewer's attention is drawn to the veil, the central relic, which stands out as the focal point of the composition.
Technique
This work is a woodcut, a relief printing technique where the image is carved into a wooden block, inked, and transferred to paper. Dürer's mastery is evident in the fine, controlled lines and the use of cross-hatching to create tonal variation. The absence of color focuses attention on the linear details and the interplay of light and shadow.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public domain (CC0)