The Knight, Death and the Devil

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The Knight, Death and the Devil

Artist Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471-1528)

Place of OriginGermany

Date1513

Dimensions9 5/8 × 7 7/16 in. (24.4 × 18.9 cm)

Mediumengraving

ClassificationPrints

Credit LineWinthrop H. Perry Collection

Object number

1921.8

Not on View

Label TextThe earliest of the three master engravings, which also include Melencolia I and St. Jerome in his Study: to some this print embodies the active pursuit of morality with a Christian Knight going forth to do battle against the forces of evil. Others argue that the Knight represents a robber baron, companion to Death and the Devil rather than adversary of. If the former is your interpretation, it would appear that the Knight is beyond the temptation of the devil, but Death is still reminding him of his limited time on earth. The oak-leaves tied to the horse’s head and tail suggest, according to tradition, the knight is returning from a successful campaign. The foxtail on his lance is symbolic of lies, while the dog “Veritas” (truth) is pursuing the hare “Problema” (quandary). The rich details in this print are all the more amazing because the twilight atmosphere limits the tonal range available to the artist.Published ReferencesBartsch 98. Hollstein 74. Meder 74.Exhibition HistoryThe Passion and the Apocalypse: Albrecht Dürer's Renaissance, Oct 1,04 - Jan 2,05 TMA Durer Prints: Sept. 17 -Oct. 30, 1983