Artwork
Saint George Slaying the Dragon
Saint George Slaying the Dragon is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1511 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Saint George Slaying the Dragon is a 1511 woodcut on laid paper by Albrecht Altdorfer, a prominent figure of the Danube School during the Renaissance. This print exemplifies Altdorfer's innovative approach to combining figural scenes with expressive landscapes.
Subject & Meaning
The woodcut depicts the legendary moment of Saint George spearing a dragon that has encircled a woman, set against a detailed rocky landscape with a castle and church in the background. The scene conveys Saint George's determination and heroism.
Technique & Style
Altdorfer employed sharp lines and deep shadows in the woodcut to heighten the drama of the action. Notable details include the textured scales of the dragon and the intricate armor of Saint George, contrasting with the softer, more dreamlike quality of the distant background.
History & Provenance
Created in 1511, this work reflects Altdorfer's early emphasis on landscape as a significant element in his compositions, characteristic of the Danube School's style.
Context
As part of the Renaissance, this piece showcases how religious themes were reinterpreted with increased emphasis on natural settings, a hallmark of the Danube School's contribution to the period's art.
Legacy
Saint George Slaying the Dragon contributes to Altdorfer's legacy as a pioneer in integrating detailed landscapes with traditional religious subjects, influencing subsequent artistic approaches to narrative scenes.
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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…
