“The Fifth Knot”. Interlaced Roundel with Seven Six-pointed Stars

“The Fifth Knot”. Interlaced Roundel with Seven Six-pointed Stars, created by Albrecht Dürer between 1500 and 1521, is a masterful example of Northern Renaissance graphic design. Executed in the demanding medium of woodcut, this print belongs to a renowned series exploring complex, continuous knot patterns and pure geometric interlacing. Dürer, a towering figure in the history of art, significantly elevated the print medium from simple illustration to a sophisticated art form, utilizing the high contrast inherent in the wood block technique to achieve remarkable visual precision.

This specific design centers on an intricate circular roundel composed of flowing, continuous lines that loop and overlap, forming seven distinct six-pointed stars around a central core. Such detailed ornamental designs were highly valued during the 16th century, serving as fundamental models for artisans and craftsmen working in fields such as metalwork, architecture, and textile design. Dürer’s deep study of perspective and geometry is evident in the flawless construction of the knot, which creates a fascinating study in pattern repetition and the illusion of depth.

The series to which The Fifth Knot belongs demonstrates Dürer’s intellectual engagement with mathematical theory applied directly to artistic practice, a characteristic theme of the German Renaissance. Because of their reproducibility, these woodcut prints were easily disseminated across Europe, influencing generations of graphic artists and serving as practical design resources. Today, this foundational work of ornament resides in the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As a historical artifact of this age, high-resolution images of Dürer's prints are frequently made accessible via public domain initiatives, ensuring continued scholarship and appreciation for this masterful aspect of the artist’s oeuvre.