Apollo and Diana

Apollo and Diana is a striking print created by Albrecht Dürer between 1504 and 1505. This highly detailed engraving on laid paper exemplifies the technical zenith of early 16th-century German Renaissance graphic arts. Produced during the period 1501 to 1550, the work reflects Dürer's deep engagement with classical mythology and idealized human forms, knowledge he acquired during his study and travels in Italy. The classification of the work as a Print highlights a medium in which Dürer excelled, transforming the standards of artistic reproduction across Europe.

The subject centers on the classical deities Apollo, god of the sun, music, and poetry, and his twin sister Diana (Artemis), goddess of the hunt and the moon. Dürer typically rendered the figures with dynamic poses, emphasizing classical proportion and anatomical precision. Apollo is often depicted holding his bow or standing near a tree, while Diana is accompanied by her hunting implements. The precise lines and deep cross-hatching characteristic of engraving demonstrate Dürer’s mastery of the burin. Unlike the less subtle effects achievable in woodcuts, this demanding technique allowed for an unparalleled level of shadow depth, volume, and texture definition within the composition. This 16th-century depiction of classical myths became profoundly influential, setting a benchmark for generations of artists creating subsequent scenes featuring Apollo and Diana.

As one of the most prominent figures of the German Renaissance, Dürer infused his prints with humanist ideals and detailed observations of both the natural and antique world. This piece is testament to the artist's prolific output of graphic art, often intended for wide distribution. The lasting significance of this work ensures that high-quality prints remain accessible to researchers and the public today, sometimes through resources provided by public domain art collections. This important example of 16th-century German artistry is preserved in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, where it serves as a key reference point for the study of Renaissance engravings.