The Apocalyptic Woman, from "The Apocalypse", Latin Edition

The Apocalyptic Woman, from "The Apocalypse", Latin Edition by Albrecht Dürer, executed in 1511, is a masterful example of Renaissance printmaking. This woodcut is one of fifteen dramatic scenes illustrating the Book of Revelation, and belongs to Dürer’s second, slightly reworked edition of the seminal series first published in 1498.

Dürer revolutionized the possibilities of the woodcut medium, bringing unprecedented detail and emotional intensity to a form previously reserved for simpler illustrations. This particular piece depicts the Woman Clothed with the Sun, a key figure in the narrative of the Apocalypse (Revelation 12). She is shown standing on the crescent moon, crowned with twelve stars, shielded by attending angels from the multi-headed Dragon surging below. Dürer’s sophisticated use of line creates deep chiaroscuro and texture, amplifying the terror and divine power central to the eschatological subject matter. The dynamic composition and meticulous rendering established new standards for graphic arts across Europe.

The success of the Apocalypse series solidified Dürer’s international reputation as the leading graphic artist of his era. Because of the nature of prints, many impressions of this celebrated work were distributed widely throughout the early 16th century. This impression of The Apocalyptic Woman is held in the comprehensive collection of prints at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its enduring influence ensures that the design has entered the public domain, making high-quality reproductions and digital assets of these iconic woodcuts widely accessible today.