English

Virgin and Child with Saint Anne

probably 1519
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 607
Dürer traveled to Italy from 1505–7, in particular to Venice, where he drew many inspirations for his art. Venetian painting encouraged Dürer’s interest in rich color and meticulous attention to detail, as well as simplicity of form. Dürer’s haunting devotional painting depicts Saint Anne, the Virgin Mary’s mother, who was particularly venerated in Germany, with the Virgin and Child. Anne’s hand on her daughter’s shoulder takes on a consolatory meaning, and her distant gaze suggests a premonition of Christ’s Passion. Although this panel’s date and monogram were added later, the date is likely accurate.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Virgin and Child with Saint Anne
  • Artist: Albrecht Dürer (German, Nuremberg 1471–1528 Nuremberg)
  • Date: probably 1519
  • Medium: Oil on linden
  • Dimensions: 23 5/8 x 19 5/8 in. (60 x 49.8 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.40.633
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

Audio

Cover Image for 5101. Virgin and Child with Saint Anne

5101. Virgin and Child with Saint Anne

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