Saint George Standing

Saint George Standing is a masterful engraving created by Albrecht Dürer between 1502 and 1503. This early 16th-century print exemplifies Dürer's revolutionary approach to the medium, demonstrating the rich tonal depth and texture achievable through precise handling of the burin, establishing the German Renaissance master as one of the great printmakers in history.

The work portrays the titular military saint in a moment of stoic contemplation rather than dynamic action. Saint George is depicted standing in meticulously rendered contemporary Armor, a highly detailed suit showcasing Dürer’s technical skill in representing metallic surfaces and folded fabric. In his right hand, he firmly grasps the handle of a formidable, two-handed Sword, the tip resting near the ground, symbolizing vigilance and readiness. The composition emphasizes his status through the careful arrangement of compositional elements, including the fluttering Flags or banners visible just behind him, typically associated with Christian chivalry and victory.

Executed during a peak period of Dürer’s career when he was intensely focused on human proportion and ideal forms, this image blends idealized classicism with Northern European realism. Unlike earlier depictions of the saint, Dürer elevates the figure into a monumental, sculptural presence. This exceptional example of Renaissance prints is currently housed in the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a critical study piece illustrating the height of early 16th-century graphic arts. As a widely recognized historical artwork, high-resolution reproductions of this piece are frequently found through public domain resources, facilitating wide access for academic study.