Lot Essay
Drer began work on The engraved Passion when he returned to Nuremberg from Venice in 1507, ten of the fifteen plates were not completed until 1512. The series is distinguished by a new style, where the fineness and systematic use of engraved lines model the forms in terms of light and shade. The prints are marked by an increased working of the plates, where less of the areas are left blank. The overall chiaroscuro effect imbues the scenes with an almost spiritual light.
The images are characterized by a complexity of form and expressiveness of the figures which, together with the strong light effects, create a highly dramatic atmosphere. The engraved Passion emphasizes spiritual suffering, as opposed to the stress on physical torture, as in the woodcuts of The small Passion.
The images are characterized by a complexity of form and expressiveness of the figures which, together with the strong light effects, create a highly dramatic atmosphere. The engraved Passion emphasizes spiritual suffering, as opposed to the stress on physical torture, as in the woodcuts of The small Passion.