Artwork

Arion and a Nereid

Arion and a Nereid, by Albrecht Altdorfer, ink, 1522
Arion and a Nereid, by Albrecht Altdorfer, ink, 1522

Arion and a Nereid is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1522 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Albrecht Altdorfer's 'Arion and a Nereid' is an engraving on laid paper, created around 1522. As a prominent figure in the Danube School, Altdorfer was known for his landscapes and biblical scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a man, possibly Arion, seated on a fish, and a woman, likely a Nereid, grasping a trident behind him. The scene is set against a watery backdrop with a distant castle, and features symbolic elements characteristic of the Renaissance style.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Altdorfer's skill with intricate engravings, utilizing cross-hatching to create depth and dimensionality. The level of detail, evident in the texture of the woman's hair and the fish's scales, aligns with the style of the Nuremberg Little Masters.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Altdorfer

Artist

Albrecht Altdorfer

Albrecht Altdorfer (c. 1480 – 12 February 1538) was a German painter, engraver and architect of the Renaissance working in Regensburg. Along with Lucas Cranach the Elder and Wolf Huber he is regarded to be the main…

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