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Image of Gallery in South Kensington
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The Bearing of the Cross

Print
1498-1499 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

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.

On his way to execution, Christ turns to St Veronica who offers him her veil to wipe the blood and sweat from his face. It is a brief moment as Christ is propelled forward by the procession. The crowd is composed of soldiers, henchmen, officials and Christ’s followers. His mother Mary and St John are seen on the left.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Titles
  • The Bearing of the Cross (generic title)
  • The Large Passion (series title)
Materials and techniques
Woodcut on paper
Brief description
Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528); 'The Bearing of the Cross' from the 'Large Passion' series; 1498-9; woodcut
Physical description
Black and white woodcut. Christ is depicted turning towards St Veronica. He is on his knees with the cross on his back. The crowd surges through the gates of Jerusalem
Dimensions
  • Height: 39.4cm
  • Width: 28.3cm
Credit line
Bequeathed by Miss G. E. Carthew
Subjects depicted
Summary
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.

On his way to execution, Christ turns to St Veronica who offers him her veil to wipe the blood and sweat from his face. It is a brief moment as Christ is propelled forward by the procession. The crowd is composed of soldiers, henchmen, officials and Christ’s followers. His mother Mary and St John are seen on the left.
Associated objects
Collection
Accession number
E.707-1940

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Record createdJune 15, 2005
Record URL
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