Artwork
Saint George
Saint George is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Albrecht Altdorfer, a prominent German Renaissance artist associated with the Danube School, produced the engraving *Saint George* circa 1516. This work exemplifies his dual capability in crafting detailed, small-scale engravings alongside larger, landscape-rich compositions.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the legendary scene of Saint George on horseback, spear poised to strike a gigantic lizard (dragon), set against a meticulously rendered natural backdrop. This composition reflects Altdorfer's penchant for integrating figural subjects within expressive landscapes.
Technique & Style
Executed in black and white, the engraving utilizes cross-hatching—a technique involving closely spaced parallel lines—to achieve deep shadows, dramatic intensity, and textured depth. Sharp lines and defined shadows further enhance the scene's visual complexity.
History & Provenance
Created around 1516 in Regensburg, where Altdorfer was active, the engraving's specific provenance (ownership history) is not detailed here, highlighting instead its attribution to Altdorfer's oeuvre within the Danube School.
Context
*Saint George* reflects the Renaissance interest in religious narratives and the Danube School's emphasis on detailed, naturalistic settings. The choice of subject and technique situates the work within early 16th-century German artistic practices.
Legacy
As one of Altdorfer's smaller, intricate engravings, *Saint George* contributes to the artist's reputation for versatility and to the broader legacy of the Danube School's influence on European Renaissance art.
Artist & collection
Artist
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…
