Dood van Maria 1506 - 1538

Albrecht Altdorfer created this woodcut, 'Death of the Virgin,' sometime in the early 16th century. The medium itself – woodcut – is critical to understanding its impact. Consider how the artist meticulously carved away at the block to create the image. With each cut, Altdorfer defined the intricate lines that bring this scene to life. Look at the textures he achieved, from the delicate folds of fabric to the heavy, vaulted architecture. The very act of carving into the wood imbued the image with a graphic power that is both forceful and refined. Woodcut was a key technology for the mass production of images in the early modern period. Altdorfer created this intimate artwork that could be widely distributed, connecting viewers across social classes. The choice of material and process was not just about aesthetics; it was about engaging with a rapidly changing world, where art and commerce were becoming increasingly intertwined. It challenges us to appreciate the skill and labor involved in its making, and to consider the role of craft in shaping our understanding of art.