Artwork

Group of Five Figures

Group of Five Figures, by Albrecht Dürer, 1516
Group of Five Figures, by Albrecht Dürer, 1516

Group of Five Figures is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Albrecht Dürer's print 'Group of Five Figures' dates to around 1516. It exemplifies the artist's expertise in rendering detailed, expressive scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts five figures in a rocky, dark setting: a central nude male figure with bound hands, flanked by two men, observed by a fourth figure, and accompanied by a reclining woman. The scene's meaning is open to interpretation, with the central figure possibly representing a prisoner.

Technique & Style

Dürer employs chiaroscuro to create a dramatic effect, using strong contrasts between light and dark to convey volume and depth. The figures are rendered in a detailed, realistic style, with attention to textures of skin and clothing, showcasing Dürer's technical skill.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Dürer

Artist

Albrecht Dürer

Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.