Coat of Arms with a Lion and a Cock

Coat of Arms with a Lion and a Cock is a masterfully executed engraving created by Albrecht Dürer between 1502 and 1503. This work exemplifies the high technical achievement of the German Renaissance, where Dürer played a pivotal role in elevating printmaking to the level of high art. The central subject is a complex display of heraldry, featuring the titular Lion and Cock integrated into the symbolic shield structure.

The composition centers on an elaborate escutcheon supported by two highly detailed, contrasting creatures. The Lion, a traditional symbol of strength and nobility often found in heraldry, stands regally beneath the shield, while the Cock (Rooster) perches on a decorative scroll above, adding an element of dynamic vitality. Dürer’s precision in the engraving medium is evident in the finely cross-hatched lines that define the textures of the animals' fur and feathers, as well as the intricate patterning of the surrounding helmets and mantling. Although often categorized broadly as heraldic devices, the specific family or individual for whom this particular Coat of Arms with a Lion and a Cock was commissioned remains a topic of scholarly discussion.

As one of the leading figures in the history of prints, Dürer ensured that his images circulated widely across Europe, cementing his influence. This enduring legacy means that high-quality prints of the work are readily available today, often found in public domain collections due to the age of the original plates. This specific impression is housed in the expansive collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where it serves as a key example of the artist's dedication to linear clarity and dramatic compositional structure during his most prolific period.