Saint George Standing

Saint George Standing is a highly detailed engraving created by Albrecht Dürer between 1502 and 1503. This exceptional early 16th-century German Renaissance print exemplifies Dürer’s unparalleled mastery of the burin, establishing him as the foremost printmaker of his era. This classification as a print allowed for wider dissemination, influencing artists and collectors across Europe and solidifying Dürer's reputation internationally. Produced during a prolific period following his first journey to Italy, the composition demonstrates Dürer’s careful study of anatomical proportion and classical contrapposto, applied here to the idealized figure of the Christian martyr.

The subject matter focuses solely on Saint George, traditionally revered as a warrior saint and protector. Unlike the artist's other depictions of the saint, which include the slain dragon, the figure in this work is shown standing alone in heroic, knightly splendor, fully equipped for battle. Clad in remarkably detailed armor and holding a tall spear, the powerful figure is accompanied by billowing flags and standards that reinforce his military stature and religious zeal. The precise draftsmanship characteristic of Dürer captures the texture of the metal, the subtle musculature of the horse, and the soft folds of the fabric with exceptional clarity. This iconic engraving resides in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, serving as a critical example of Renaissance printmaking. Due to its age and historical significance, Dürer's original output, including works such as this, are frequently found within public domain collections globally.