Peasant Couple at Market

Peasant Couple at Market is a masterful engraving on laid paper created by Albrecht Dürer in 1519. This work exemplifies Dürer's profound influence during the pivotal years of the German Renaissance, fitting squarely within the period spanning 1501 to 1550. As one of the most celebrated figures in the history of prints, Dürer used the exacting technique of engraving to capture highly detailed figures and textures, a hallmark of his graphic output.

The scene depicts a peasant couple engaged in an everyday market interaction. The figures, rendered with characteristic precision, are typical of the genre scenes that became popular during this era, often providing subtle observation or commentary on social class and rural life. The woman carries a basket and appears to be negotiating or haggling, emphasizing the transactional nature of the market. The man stands close beside her, his posture suggesting familiarity and perhaps a cautious assessment of the exchange. Dürer’s renowned attention to costume, expression, and physiognomy allows for a strong identification of the subjects' societal status and lends an immediate sense of authenticity to the setting.

Throughout his career, Dürer elevated the status of the print medium from mere reproductive illustration to high art. The resulting proliferation of his prints, such as this piece, ensured his distinctive style and powerful subject matter traveled widely across Europe during the early 16th century. This specific example of Peasant Couple at Market resides in the distinguished graphic arts collection at the National Gallery of Art, offering scholars and the public an exceptional viewing opportunity. Given the age and historical context of the piece, many of Dürer’s prints are today available through public domain collections, ensuring continued accessibility for study and appreciation of this German master’s legacy.