The Babylonian Whore, from "The Apocalypse"

The Babylonian Whore, from "The Apocalypse" by Albrecht Dürer is a seminal woodcut created in 1498. This powerful print belongs to Dürer’s famous series illustrating the Book of Revelation, which dramatically changed the possibilities of printmaking in the Northern Renaissance. The sequential series, published in both Latin and German editions, cemented Dürer’s reputation across Europe and offered a highly visual interpretation of complex biblical prophecies as the 15th century drew to a close.

The scene depicts the infamous Whore of Babylon, lavishly dressed and seated upon the terrifying seven-headed, ten-horned scarlet beast. She holds the golden cup of her abominations, surrounded by kings and earthly men who are seduced and intoxicated by her corruption, symbolizing worldly power and sin. Above this turmoil, righteous angels descend or observe the terrifying events unfolding below, highlighting the divine judgment inherent in the Apocalypse narrative.

Dürer’s innovative technique elevates the traditional woodcut medium to a new level of detail and artistic sophistication. The expressive linear qualities and sophisticated handling of shadow lend tremendous drama to this apocalyptic vision, capturing the intensity and anxiety associated with the end times. Classified as a print, this work showcases the German master’s ability to use simple, precise lines to convey massive scale and theological weight. Today, original impressions of this highly influential work are held in prestigious collections globally, including this superb example housed within the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because Dürer's masterworks are now in the public domain, high-quality images of this pivotal early modern print are widely accessible for study.