Salvator Mundi

Albrecht Dürer

Created:
Movement:
1510
Renaissance
key Notes:
1. Christ's Benediction 2. Detailed Iconography
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Dimensions:
22 7/8 x 18 1/2in. (58.1 x 47cm)
medium:
Oil on linden
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Salvator Mundi" is a painting attributed to Albrecht Dürer, created around 1505. The artwork depicts Christ as the Savior of the World, holding a crystal orb in his left hand while raising his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The painting is notable for its detailed rendering and the use of light and shadow, showcasing Dürer's mastery of oil painting. The attribution to Dürer has been debated among scholars, with some suggesting it may be a work by a follower or a later copy. The painting's provenance is unclear, and it has changed hands multiple times over the centuries. In 2017, "Salvator Mundi" gained significant attention when it was sold at auction for a record-breaking price. The current location of the painting is unknown, as it has not been publicly displayed since its sale.

Description of the work:

"Salvator Mundi," attributed to Albrecht Dürer and created around 1505, depicts Christ as the Savior of the World. The painting features Christ in a frontal pose, holding a crystal orb in his left hand while raising his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The figure is rendered with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing Dürer's skill in capturing texture and form. The background is a soft, muted landscape that contrasts with the vibrant colors of Christ's garments, which are richly adorned in shades of blue and red. The use of oil on linden allows for a smooth application and a luminous quality in the depiction of skin tones. The composition is balanced and harmonious, emphasizing the central figure of Christ. The painting exemplifies Dürer's mastery of light and shadow, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the figure. The overall effect is one of serenity and divine presence, characteristic of Renaissance religious art.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Salvator Mundi