Landscape with a Cannon

The print Landscape with a Cannon by Albrecht Dürer captures a detailed scene combining natural topography and military subject matter. Although Dürer executed the original plate around 1518, this specific impression represents the third and final state (iii/iii), meaning it was likely printed posthumously, possibly as late as 1680. Created using the etching technique, the work showcases the fine linear detail and atmospheric depth Dürer achieved in his graphic prints.

The composition places a large cannon prominently in the foreground, attended by several men, suggesting either a military encampment or preparation for conflict. Unlike many of Dürer's allegorical or didactic prints, Landscape with a Cannon emphasizes realistic observation of the surrounding terrain. The view meticulously details rolling hills and expansive land that recedes into the distance, providing a deep sense of atmosphere and space. This focus on the external world marks the work as a pivotal moment in the development of pure landscape art within the Northern Renaissance.

As one of the earliest known prints dedicated almost entirely to the landscape genre, this piece demonstrates Dürer’s pioneering contributions to art history. His unparalleled skill in producing technically intricate etchings and woodcuts cemented his reputation across Europe. This specific impression of the print is preserved within the comprehensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where detailed images of this historic work are often made available through public domain initiatives for scholarship and research.