The Abduction of Proserpine on a Unicorn

The Abduction of Proserpine on a Unicorn, attributed to the workshop of Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528, is a compelling example of classical mythology rendered through the lens of Northern European printmaking. Classified as an etching in black on ivory laid paper, this work employs meticulous line work characteristic of the German Renaissance graphic tradition. The scene depicts the Roman goddess Proserpine being carried away, but strikingly replaces the conventional classical chariot with a fantastical unicorn, injecting allegorical complexity into the mythological narrative.

Although the design is associated with Dürer, the print itself was produced posthumously, dating the impression between 1540 and 1550, decades after the artist’s death in 1528. This indicates the piece was created either by an artist highly influenced by the master's aesthetic or originated from an edition pulled from a plate designed by the influential Dürer circle. The continued production of these prints speaks to the enduring demand for works associated with the celebrated master throughout Germany and across Europe.

The technical medium of etching allowed for rapid dissemination of complex imagery, solidifying the role of the print as a primary vehicle for circulating artistic and cultural ideas during the mid-sixteenth century. This historical print, reflecting both the allegorical interests and the technical prowess of the era, is held in the comprehensive collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, contributing to the available record of German Renaissance prints accessible through the public domain.