Christ on the Mount of Olives

Albrecht Altdorfer

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing featuring a robed figure in a natural setting among reclining figures, with a landscape of trees and a crescent moon in the sky. Above the central figure, an apparition or face appears among swirling clouds. The artwork uses intricate line work and shading to create contrast, mystery, and reverence. The textures and patterns used suggest an etching or woodcut technique.