Albrecht Dürer
German, 1471-1528
Knight, Death, and the Devil, 1513
Engraving
Exuding strength and valor, a horseback warrior strides confidently, while his trusted spaniel rushes along with equal determined intent. Behind him, a crowned corpse and peculiar monster-devil glare aimlessly. This engraving, one of Albrecht Dürer's most refined, complex, and accomplished, is regarded as one of his master works and was made as a dazzling original work of art for discerning, intellectual collectors in 16th century Germany. Yet its interpretations are manifold and none is fully substantiated. Is the armored knight a figure of righteousness and moral fortitude, unperturbed by the lurking evil as he steadfastly pursues a virtuous mission of Christian service? Or should he instill fear in us, as nefarious henchmen accompany him on a plundering journey? Whatever Dürer's intended message may have been in this magnificent example of the medium of engraving, the hourglass in the corpse's hand, and skull at the steed's feet, remind us that time will catch up with us all.