Lamentation

Dürer 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 almost spiritual light.
The images are characterized by a complexity of form and expressiveness of the figure which, together with the strong light effects, create a highly dramatic atmosphere.