Basic Information

Historical Context

Part of Dürer's early print series depicting the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary. This series was among Dürer's first independent publishing ventures and helped establish his reputation as a printmaker. [Inferred from Dürer Catalog] Visual Description The Virgin Mary is shown standing alone, her face expressing deep sorrow. Around her, seven scenes depict the sorrows foretold by Simeon: the Presentation, the Flight into Egypt, the Loss of the Child in the Temple, the Way to Calvary, the Crucifixion, the Deposition, and the Entombment. Artistic Analysis This series demonstrates Dürer's early mastery of woodcut composition and his ability to create emotionally powerful religious imagery. The combination of the central figure with surrounding narrative scenes was an innovative format that Dürer developed to great effect.