The Nativity by Albrecht Durer

The Nativity 1504

albrechtdurer's Profile Picture

albrechtdurer

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amateur sketch

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toned paper

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light pencil work

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germany

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print

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pen sketch

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pencil sketch

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sketch book

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incomplete sketchy

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personal sketchbook

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pen-ink sketch

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engraving

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watercolor

Albrecht Dürer’s “The Nativity,” a 1504 engraving, depicts the birth of Jesus in a humble stable. Despite the sacred subject, Dürer places the scene within a realistic, almost mundane setting, drawing the viewer into the intimate space of the stable. The composition, characterized by its detailed architectural elements, suggests the artist's interest in perspective and his careful observation of the world around him. This engraving showcases Dürer's mastery of the technique of line engraving, with delicate lines creating a rich and textured surface. The detailed and naturalistic portrayal of the figures and setting is a hallmark of the Northern Renaissance style and the work of this influential artist.

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minneapolisinstituteofart's Profile Picture
minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

The beautiful architecture and scenery of this print hide significant symbolic meanings associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. The dilapidated state of the buildings and the vegetation sprouting from the ruins signify the birth of the new amidst the decay of the old. The draw-well and broken pitcher allude to not only the purity of the Virgin, but also to the waters of Paradise and the sacrament of Baptism. Yet while the inclusion of symbolic meaning is typical for nativity scenes of the period, Dürer's mastery of perspective was definitely unique and remarkable.

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