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

Hecyra, from "The Comedie of Terence", 19th century reprint is a masterful example of the woodcut technique associated with the German Renaissance master Albrecht Dürer. Although this specific print dates to the nineteenth century, the image belongs to a significant series of illustrations designed by Dürer between approximately 1485 and 1528 for an edition of the Roman playwright Terence’s comedies. This high-quality print classification highlights the enduring relevance of classical literature and the revolutionary impact of the graphic arts during the early modern period.

The illustration depicts a specific scene from Terence’s play, the title of which translates to "The Mother-in-Law." The composition is structurally anchored by detailed Buildings that establish an ancient urban setting, reflecting the dramatic locale necessary for the play. Several Men occupy the foreground, their posed interactions conveying the complex narrative and the dramatic tension inherent in the comic genre. Dürer’s design, even when observed through a later reproduction, demonstrates his characteristic command of line and shadow, providing clear articulation and emotional resonance to the literary narrative.

As one of the most celebrated printmakers in history, Dürer’s designs remained highly influential for centuries, justifying the creation of these later reproductions to meet continued demand. The quality of this woodcut print, even as a 19th-century impression, ensures the lasting legacy of the original illustration series. This impression of Hecyra is held within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, contributing to the understanding of Renaissance illustration and the dissemination of classical texts. Works such as this are often made available through digitized prints and public domain resources for scholarly research and appreciation.