Engraved copies of The Little Passion 1485 - 1699

Albrecht Durer created these engravings of the Little Passion to circulate religious stories in Northern Europe. Durer's image builds meaning through its visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. Made in the early 16th century, this print reflects the religious and social upheaval of the Reformation. The narrative of Christ's suffering and sacrifice resonated deeply in a society grappling with questions of faith, authority, and individual salvation. The engravings were part of a larger cultural movement that saw the rise of printmaking as a means of disseminating ideas. The image challenges the established art institutions by making art more accessible and affordable. To understand it better, historians explore the social conditions that shape artistic production. We can research the political and religious context of the time and analyze the print's visual language to grasp its full meaning. Art's meaning is contingent on its social and institutional context.