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

Phormio, from "The Comedie of Terence", 19th century reprint by Albrecht Dürer, is a visually engaging example of early graphic arts executed using the woodcut technique. Although this particular impression dates to the 19th century, it faithfully reproduces the compositional clarity and linear design established by Dürer during the peak of the German Renaissance, roughly between 1485 and 1528. This work illustrates a scene from the classical Roman comedy by Terence, demonstrating the Renaissance fascination with and commitment to illustrating ancient literature.

The print showcases Dürer’s skill in adapting complex narrative scenes for the relief printing medium. The composition depicts a dynamic gathering of men positioned along a detailed street, framed by multi-story buildings that establish a sense of urban space. The precise rendering of the architectural elements and the expressive gestures of the figures transform the simple medium of the woodcut into a vibrant narrative illustration. Dürer achieved spatial depth and texture through the careful use of cross-hatching and varying line density, techniques essential for conveying light and shadow in black-and-white prints.

The existence of 19th-century reprints underscores the continued cultural importance and commercial longevity of Dürer’s designs centuries after their creation. Such reproductions have been crucial in ensuring the widespread dissemination of his work, contributing significantly to the modern availability of these historic images. Today, many high-quality prints stemming from Dürer’s original matrices, including images like Phormio, are readily accessible through public domain collections worldwide. This impression of the woodcut print is officially housed in the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a key reference for studying the history of European graphic arts.