Nemesis (The Great Fortune) by Albrecht Dürer is a monumental engraving on laid paper, executed between 1501 and 1502, representing one of the most ambitious prints produced by the artist during the height of the German Renaissance. This work showcases Dürer’s absolute command of the burin, utilizing intricate cross-hatching and varied line weight to define form, texture, and light across the composition.
The subject is drawn from classical mythology, though filtered through a humanist lens. The towering, nude female figure represents Nemesis, the goddess responsible for divine retribution and the measured balance of human affairs, often conflated with Fortuna (The Great Fortune). She stands precariously balanced upon a globe, symbolizing the instability of fate and earthly existence. In her right hand, Nemesis holds the bridle of restraint, while her left clasps a covered cup, believed to contain either the sweetness or bitterness of fortune. The dramatic pose of the figure dominates the scene, yet Dürer meticulously details the vast, receding landscape below, depicting a specific view identifiable as the town of Klausen in Tyrol.
This sophisticated treatment of classical allegory set against a realistic German backdrop marks Dürer’s pivotal role in disseminating Renaissance ideals across Northern Europe during the period of 1501 to 1550. The technical brilliance necessary for such a large and complex print solidified Dürer’s reputation as the foremost graphic artist of his generation. The work remains a key example of historical prints and is a testament to the enduring influence of the artist’s oeuvre. Today, this impression of Nemesis resides in the esteemed collection of the National Gallery of Art. Many high-quality images of this masterpiece are now accessible to researchers through public domain initiatives, ensuring its continuous study.
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