The Annunciation, from the Small Passion, copy 1485 - 1600

Albrecht Durer made this woodcut, “The Annunciation,” as part of his “Small Passion” series. It depicts the angel Gabriel telling Mary that she will be the mother of Jesus. In 16th-century Germany, Durer was a leading figure in the Northern Renaissance. The Protestant Reformation was gaining momentum, challenging the Catholic Church's authority. Woodcuts were a popular and accessible medium. They allowed artists to disseminate their work widely, engaging with a broad audience. The "Small Passion" series reflects Durer's engagement with religious themes during this period of upheaval. Note the domestic setting, indicated by the bed. Durer’s signature is prominently displayed above Mary’s head, indicating the growing status of artists at the time. Art historians examine such symbols and settings to understand the cultural context in which the artwork was produced and consumed. By studying historical documents, religious texts, and the artist's biography, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork’s meaning.