The Large Horse

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The Large Horse

Artist Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471-1528)

Date1505

Dimensionsimage: 6 1/2 x 4 5/8 in. (16.5 x 11.7 cm)

MediumEngraving

ClassificationPrints

Credit LineWinthrop H. Perry Fund

Object number

1930.18

Not on View

Label TextThe oblique angle makes it unlikely that this horse was a study of ideal proportions, but rather a representation of the essential natural qualities of an individual horse. Monumental, the horse takes up almost the entire picture area. It is severely foreshortened to about half its original length and is not proportionally constructed on a grid. This print symbolizes the ascendancy of the intellect: of man’s control of animal baseness and sensuality.The armored warrior is in control: the horse is bridled and awaits guidance. A dolphin, the most ‘intellectual’ of the sea creatures, and a caterpillar, the asexual counterpart of the butterfly surmount the helmet of the soldier.Published ReferencesBartsch 97 Hollstein 94 Meder 94Exhibition HistoryThe Passion and the Apocalypse: Albrecht Dürer's Renaissance, Oct 1,04 - Jan 2,05 TMA Durer Prints: Sept. 17 -Oct. 30, 1983