In Our Time Albrecht Dürer
Nov 12, 2020
Join Susan Foister, Giulia Bartrum, and Ulinka Rublack as they dive deep into the life and legacy of Albrecht Dürer, a titan of German art. They explore the vibrant cultural backdrop of Nuremberg and Dürer's revolutionary approach to printmaking. Discover the fascinating story behind his iconic rhinoceros print and how Martin Luther's ideas influenced his work. The discussion also delves into the darker themes of Dürer's engravings and his quest for artistic identity amidst the challenges of his time.
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Self-Portraits and Identity
- Dürer created three distinctive self-portraits in oil between ages 22 and 28, showcasing different facets of his persona.
- These portraits, kept at home, demonstrated his skill and artistic philosophy while also exploring themes of talent, doubt, and mortality.
The Rhinoceros's Enduring Appeal
- Dürer's woodcut of a rhinoceros, based on a written description and sketch, became remarkably popular and enduring.
- Despite never seeing the animal, Dürer's depiction, enhanced by its composition and monogram, captured the public's imagination.
Dürer's German Identity
- Dürer identified with a proto-nationalist German artistic movement, responding to Italian prejudice against Germans.
- While asserting German artistic leadership, Dürer also embraced Italian Renaissance techniques and demonstrated nuanced views of Germany.
