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

Eunuchus, from "The Comedie of Terence", 19th century reprint by Albrecht Dürer is a significant example of early graphic design repurposed centuries later. The original illustrations for Terence’s classical comedies were executed between 1485 and 1528, a period marking the height of Dürer’s career and the rapid development of printmaking in Northern Europe. This specific impression is a 19th century reprint, showcasing the enduring appeal and educational value of Dürer’s narrative designs. The medium, woodcut, allowed for wide dissemination, making classical texts accessible to a broader audience.

Dürer designed 139 woodcuts for the projected edition of the Roman playwright Publius Terentius Afer’s six comedies. Although the original illustrated edition was never fully published in his lifetime, these designs represent a pivotal moment where Renaissance artistic principles intersected with classical literature. This piece focuses on the figure of the Eunuchus, or the Eunuch, a common character type within Roman comedy. Dürer’s graphic style skillfully captures the dramatic posture and individuality of the men depicted, translating ancient stagecraft into a precise, black-and-white visual language.

As a woodcut, the work utilized the sharp, deep contrasts inherent in the medium, emphasizing clean line work over complex shading. While the original printing blocks are now lost, this 19th century print preserves the integrity of Dürer’s intricate composition. Such historical prints are often sourced from important collections that have entered the public domain, ensuring scholars and enthusiasts worldwide can study the evolution of illustration and the history of prints. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this work in its extensive collection of graphic arts, recognizing its importance both as a historical reprint and as a key component of Dürer’s overall output.