The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, from The Apocalypse

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, from The Apocalypse is arguably the most famous print created by Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528. Executed between 1496 and 1498, this highly detailed woodcut in black on ivory laid paper is part of Dürer’s renowned fifteen-part series illustrating the Book of Revelation. Produced in Germany during the dawn of the Northern Renaissance, this series fundamentally transformed the status of prints from mere illustrations into independent works of high art, suitable for serious contemplation and collecting.

The work dramatically captures the catastrophic sweep of divine judgment as the four allegorical riders burst forth from the clouds to inflict their wrath upon humanity. The print depicts the crowned figure of Conquest, followed closely by War brandishing a sword, Famine holding a set of scales, and Death astride an emaciated horse, trampling a bishop and others beneath his hooves.

Dürer’s innovative technique revolutionized the medium of woodcut. He utilized intricate, densely packed cross-hatching and varied line weights to create unprecedented levels of volume, texture, and powerful atmospheric momentum within the composition. This approach allowed him to convey the emotional intensity and physical realism required by the terrifying subject matter. The intense drama and technical sophistication achieved by Dürer set a benchmark for graphic arts. This influential piece is held in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, and due to its historical importance, high-quality images of this masterpiece are often made available through public domain initiatives.