Andria, from "The Comedie of Terence", 19th century reprint

Andria, from "The Comedie of Terence", 19th century reprint by Albrecht Dürer, is a crucial example of how Northern Renaissance compositions were transmitted across centuries. Although Dürer (1471-1528) executed the original design during the height of his career, this particular impression is a later woodcut reprint dating to the 19th century. It showcases Dürer’s foundational contributions to the graphic arts. As a skilled practitioner of printmaking, Dürer transformed the capabilities of the woodcut medium, moving it from a relatively crude reproductive technique to a highly expressive form of art.

The piece illustrates a scene from the Roman comedy Andria by Terence, offering a glimpse into classical literature filtered through Renaissance interpretation. Like much of Dürer’s graphic output, this print focuses on meticulously rendered Human Figures, characterized by the dramatic tension and precise line work for which the German master is renowned. While the composition originates from the early 16th century, the quality of this later impression preserves the dramatic complexity of Dürer's original design.

The enduring appeal of this classical subject matter has ensured that prints based on Dürer's work remain widely distributed, contributing to the historical visual language found in the public domain. This significant example of the power of graphic reproduction and art historical influence is held within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.