Christus aan het kruis c. 1506 - 1538

Albrecht Altdorfer's "Christus aan het kruis" (c. 1506-1538) is a powerful depiction of Christ's crucifixion. The small-scale drawing showcases Altdorfer's mastery of detail, evident in the meticulously rendered figures and landscape. The scene unfolds within a dense forest, the towering trees casting long shadows, emphasizing the solemn and dramatic nature of the event. The central figure of Christ on the cross is surrounded by a halo of light, while the surrounding figures, including Mary and John, express their grief and sorrow. This drawing exemplifies the artistic trends of the German Renaissance, where the emphasis on religious themes intersected with a growing interest in landscape and detail.