Jun 15, 2006

The Promenade

The Promenade

c. 1497

Albrecht Dürer

(German, 1471–1528)

Engraving

Image: 19.4 x 12 cm (7 5/8 x 4 3/4 in.)

John L. Severance Fund 1953.139

Catalogue raisonné: Meder 83

State: I/II

Did you know?

As if to reinforce the uncertain status of this couple, Albrecht Dürer portrayed the woman stepping on the hem of her gown.

Description

Balancing an hourglass on his head, Death stalks this fashionable couple strolling in the countryside. When Dürer created this print, figures of Death were moral reminders that life was brief, and they were also associated with the dangers of carnal desire. The improper placement of the man’s sword betrays his dishonorable intentions, while the woman’s bonnet signifies her married status. Their liaison is not innocent, but one of sinful infidelity.

See also
Collection: 
PR - Engraving
Department: 
Prints
Type of artwork: 
Print
Medium: 
Engraving

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