Apocalypsis cu Figuris

Apocalypsis cu Figuris by Albrecht Dürer is the definitive 1511 Latin edition of his revolutionary series illustrating the Book of Revelation. Produced using the woodcut technique, this collection of monumental prints represents a pinnacle of German Renaissance graphic arts. Dürer initially published the series in 1498, but the 1511 version, featuring newly typeset Latin text and the iconic title page, firmly established the work as one of the most influential and significant illustrated books of the era. The series demonstrated Dürer’s capacity to achieve unprecedented detail and dramatic scale within the demanding constraints of the woodcut medium.

The complete edition comprises fifteen full-page illustrations that translate the terrifying prophetic visions of St. John into visually accessible drama, emphasizing the powerful relationship between the image and the written word. Dürer’s dynamic compositions are populated by numerous figures, including both divine entities and earthly men, captured in moments of apocalyptic conflict. The artist’s expressive realism and control over line influenced generations of European printmakers seeking to convey complex narrative through sequential prints. This publication also highlights Dürer’s role as an independent entrepreneur, as he self-published and distributed these highly sought-after prints across the continent.

The enduring visual interpretation found within Apocalypsis cu Figuris remains a critical component of art history. The original printed book is classified as a cornerstone example of Northern Renaissance printing and resides in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because of its cultural significance and age, high-quality prints and reproductions derived from Dürer’s original designs are frequently accessible in the public domain, ensuring continued study and appreciation of this masterwork.