Artwork preview

The Descent from the Cross

Albrecht Dürer

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a figure being lowered from a cross. The image shows a group of figures around the central scene where a body is being taken down from a cross. The figure has long hair and a peaceful expression, with a ladder leaning against the cross. The other figures, wearing flowing garments, look solemn and focused on the task. The background features clouds and architectural elements, contributing to the somber atmosphere. The drawing is done in a detailed woodcut style with black lines and shading.

Artwork Details

Date
probably c. 1509/1510
Medium
woodcut on laid paper
Dimensions
3176 × 4134 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette