by Lorrie Noah

Created on: November 18, 2008

Albrecht Durer and the Renaissance

The concept of the Renaissance is viewed not only as an intellectual movement, but as a cultural one, as well. Scholars would tend to agree that there is a very distinctive style in the arts during this historical period. Although the church was still a major influence of power, it began to lose that influence during the days of Reformation. As education became more available, due in part to the use of the printing press, the newer middle class began to question the old foundations laid by the church. As society began to shift its focus upon individual achievements and scientific endeavors, the Renaissance period began to surpass the achievements made during the time of Classical Greece and Rome. Artistic innovations during the Renaissance included oil painting, sfumato, chiaroscuro, tremendous detail, and the technique of foreshortening, non religious art, a return to the painting of landscapes and portraits, and perspective as a science. One artist who contributed greatly to these innovations was Albrecht Durer.

Albrecht Durer (b. May21, 1471 d. April 6, 1528) was born in the Imperial Free City of Nurnberg, Germany, and was considered one of the finest German Renaissance artists. Durer produced such an extensive body of work; it's no easy task comparing his works with that of other artists, much less making comparisons between his own works. However, I chose to compare two pieces of his art that appeal to me on an emotional level. The first piece is a 41 x 31.5 cm watercolor on paper entitled "The Great Turf" (http://www.albrecht-durer.org/Great-Piece-of-Turf.h tml) , which was painted in 1503. The second piece, created in 1498, is oil on panel measuring 52 x 41 cm entitled "Self-Portrait with Landscape" (http://www.albrecht-durer.org/Self-Portrait-At-26.h tml).

At first glance, The Great Turf appears to be a simple study of nature. The muted greens are toned down with split complementary colors, giving the painting a somewhat soothing and natural effect, while retaining the sharp lines, edges and details of the sketch. While only speculation, it has been said that Durer utilized a number of symbolic images in his art, even in his drawings and landscapes (aiwas.net). In this piece, a flying deer to the right symbolizes Christ. Directly behind this, is the plantain (plantago major), which is thought to symbolize the spilled blood of Christ. In the left foreground is a small coleopterum (surrounded by butterflies). Having been

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