The Fifth Knot (with a six-pointed white shield)

The Fifth Knot (with a six-pointed white shield) by Albrecht Dürer, executed around 1506-1507, is a sophisticated example of the German master's influential graphic work. This piece belongs to the famed series known collectively as the "Dürer Knots," a set of six highly intricate designs that demonstrate the artist’s mastery of decorative geometry and the woodcut medium. Created during the peak of Dürer’s career, within the period of 1501 to 1550, the work reflects the Northern Renaissance fascination with complex mathematical and ornamental structures.

The technical brilliance of the woodcut lies in Dürer’s ability to render the interlacing ribbons with precise clarity. The continuous, woven pattern forms an endless loop, a symbol common in Renaissance architecture and textile design. Unlike earlier graphic renditions of knot work, Dürer treats the design with spatial awareness, suggesting volume and depth rather than simple flatness. Positioned centrally above the intricate pattern is a small, six-pointed white shield, a feature that distinguishes this specific print in the series. While the exact intent of the shield and the series as a whole remains a subject of art historical debate, these prints were highly sought after by craftsmen and patrons alike, serving as essential models for artisans working in jewelry, embroidery, and architecture across Europe.

Dürer’s foundational role in standardizing the quality of fine art prints is evident in the detailed execution of The Fifth Knot (with a six-pointed white shield). This historical work documents a critical stage in the evolution of German graphic arts, bridging late Gothic complexity with Renaissance humanism. The piece currently resides in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Like many of Dürer’s influential designs, these prints are now considered part of the public domain, allowing for wide access to his enduring contributions to artistic design.