Fortune is a masterful engraving created by Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528, between 1490 and 1500. Executed in black ink on ivory laid paper, this early print exemplifies Dürer’s foundational role in solidifying the engraving medium as a sophisticated art form in Northern Europe. During this pivotal period in Germany, Dürer moved beyond the late Gothic tradition, incorporating the newfound anatomical precision and classical allegories emerging from the Italian Renaissance. This specific piece demonstrates the technical control and complex visual language that would define his celebrated prints throughout his career.
The subject matter directly addresses the mutable nature of destiny, commonly represented by the Goddess Fortuna or Nemesis. Dürer presents the nude allegorical figure in dynamic motion, balancing precariously upon a globe or sphere, a universally understood symbol of fate’s constant turning and the instability of life. The intense detail achieved through fine crosshatching and precise line work highlights the artist’s dedication to technical excellence, solidifying his reputation as the premier printmaker of his era. This Renaissance interpretation, emerging from Germany, contributed significantly to the widespread popularity of mythological and allegorical subjects in fine art.
As a seminal example of late 15th-century Northern European graphic arts, this work showcases Dürer's early ambition and command of the burin. The overall quality and detail of the engraving remain exceptional, allowing for extensive study of the master’s technique. The original piece is classified as a print and resides within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Because of its age and cultural importance, high-resolution reproductions of this iconic Dürer work are often available through public domain archives.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.