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The Harrowing of Hell
Durer, Albrecht, born 1471 - died 1528 - Enlarge image
The Harrowing of Hell; The Large Passion; Descent into Limbo
- Object:
Print
- Place of origin:
Nuremberg, Germany (made)
- Date:
1510 (made)
1511 (published) - Artist/Maker:
Durer, Albrecht, born 1471 - died 1528 (artist)
- Materials and Techniques:
Woodcut on paper
- Credit Line:
Bequeathed by Miss G. E. Carthew
- Museum number:
E.711-1940
- Gallery location:
Prints & Drawings Study Room, level C, case EW, shelf 143, box M
This print is one of a set of 12 woodcuts that tell the story of the Crucifixion and Passion of Christ. The German painter and printmaker Albrecht Dürer transformed the narrative and expressive potential of printmaking. His 'Large Passion' series is a vivid and animated rendering of the gospel story.
According to Roman Catholic belief, Christ descended into the underworld between the time of his Crucifixion and his Resurrection. He rescued the souls of all the just people who had died and been held in limbo since the beginning of the world. Holding Christ’s cross is Adam – the first man that God created.
