Old Master Prints continue to become more popular these days. Some of the most popular pieces are Durer woodcuts from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Albrecht Durer made several series of woodcuts in his day. Of those, his most famous are Apocalypse, Life of the Virgin, Small Passion, Large Passion and Engraved Passion. Most of these have a strong Christian theme, often depicting Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. The remarkable detail within these pieces is partially what brought attention to Durer's works as many woodcuts of his time were not as detailed.
These works are very collectible as long as they were made during Durer's lifetime. Works that were made during an artist's lifetime are called "lifetime impressions", and these are far more valuable than restrikes and reproductions after the artist has died. An authentic original Durer lifetime impression is worth anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 and sometimes more.
About the author: Alex Adelman is the president of Masterworks Fine Art, Inc.
