The Martyrdom of Saint Catherine

Albrecht Dürer, c. 1497/1499

This is a drawing of a scene featuring a battle and supernatural elements. Various figures are engaged in action, possibly depicting a battle or mythical scene. In the foreground, there is a woman in a flowing dress holding a sword, kneeling before a structure emitting or struck by a burst of energy or light. Behind her, a man in armor stands with another sword, overseeing the scene. Surrounding them are numerous figures on horseback. The background shows a bright explosion-like phenomenon with rays and clouds. The landscape includes a village or castle in the distance, set against rolling hills and mountains. The image has intricate linework reminiscent of a woodcut print or detailed engraving.
Artist
Albrecht Dürer
Date
c. 1497/1499
Type
Print
Medium
woodcut on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet (trimmed to block): 39 × 28 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a drawing of a scene featuring a battle and supernatural elements. Various figures are engaged in action, possibly depicting a battle or mythical scene. In the foreground, there is a woman in a flowing dress holding a sword, kneeling before a structure emitting or struck by a burst of energy or light. Behind her, a man in armor stands with another sword, overseeing the scene. Surrounding them are numerous figures on horseback. The background shows a bright explosion-like phenomenon with rays and clouds. The landscape includes a village or castle in the distance, set against rolling hills and mountains. The image has intricate linework reminiscent of a woodcut print or detailed engraving.

Albrecht Dürer