The Large Horse

The Large Horse, created in 1505 by Albrecht Dürer German, 1471-1528, is a pivotal work in the history of prints. Executed as an exacting engraving in black on ivory laid paper, this piece exemplifies Dürer's unparalleled technical control over the burin, the primary tool used in the engraving process. Dürer, a towering figure of the Northern Renaissance, elevated the art of printmaking from a commercial craft to a recognized high art form, influencing generations of artists across Europe.

Produced midway through his career, this engraving showcases the German master's ongoing, intellectual study of classical forms and anatomical proportion. Unlike some of Dürer’s earlier prints that relied heavily on allegory or religious narrative, the focus here is purely on the depiction of the majestic animal. The large, muscular horse is rendered with immense solidity and anatomical precision, presented in a classical profile stance that recalls idealized antique statues and Italian Renaissance models Dürer studied during his travels. The intricate cross-hatching and subtle tonal variations define the volume and texture of the subject, demonstrating an advanced understanding of chiaroscuro achievable in the demanding medium of engraving.

This significant print, dating to the height of the Renaissance, highlights the sophisticated artistic output originating from Germany during this period. The artwork remains crucial for understanding Dürer’s systematic exploration of classical beauty and mathematical rigor applied to natural forms. The original impression is preserved and housed in the esteemed permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As one of Dürer’s most famous engravings, high-resolution reproductions are widely accessible to researchers and the public, often available through institutions in the public domain.